Located in the heart of Seoul, Gwanghwamun is the southern main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the primary royal palace of the Joseon dynasty and one of Korea’s most iconic landmarks. Today, it remains one of the city’s must-see sights and often a first stop for visitors from around the world. Gwanghwamun Square, stretching from Gwanghwamun Gate toward Sungnyemun Gate, opened on August 1, 2009. It was redesigned in August 2022 with wider pedestrian walkways and expanded public space, and has only grown more popular since.
On March 21, 2026, Gwanghwamun Square is expected to step into the global spotlight as the main venue of BTS concert. A special stage will rise along the “King’s Road,” and the performance will be broadcast live worldwide. Experience the energy of this iconic space through a concert shared with audiences around the globe.
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ⓒClipartKorea Gyeongbokgung Palace
* Closed on March 21
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Bukchon Hanok Village
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ⓒKorea Tourism Organizaton Photo Korea - KTO Kim Jiho Changdeokgung Palace Complex [UNESCO World Heritage Site]
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Insa-dong
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Seosulla-gil Road
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ⓒKorea Tourism Organizaton Photo Korea - Hallyu Tourism Team Jongno 3 (sam)-ga Pocha Street
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Ground Seesaw Seochon
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Cheonggyecheon Stream
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ⓒKorea Tourism Organizaton Photo Korea - KTO Lee Bumsu Sungnyemun GateA designated National Treasure and the site of the opening performance of “Global Citizen Live: Seoul” in 2021.
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ⓒKorea Tourism Organizaton Photo Korea - Lim Gwi-bin Gyeongbokgung Palace GeunjeongjeonGyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, served as the backdrop for BTS’s performance of “IDOL” on NBC’s “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” in 2020.
* Closed on March 21
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National Museum of KoreaKorea’s leading museum and a filming location for the global online graduation event “Dear Class of 2020.”
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Tosokchon SamgyetangA popular spot known for its authentic samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup).
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Gwanghwamun MijinA buckwheat noodle restaurant recognized by the Michelin Guide (Bib Gourmand)—a must-visit spot that’s well worth the wait.
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Balwoo GongyangA great spot for wholesome vegetarian temple cuisine.
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Jinokhwa Halmae Wonjo DakhanmariA favorite among international visitors in Dongdaemun’s food alley.
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Gwangjang MarketSeoul’s largest traditional market, famous for its wide variety of food stalls.
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Dongdaemun Shopping Complex·Dongdaemun Shopping TownA great place to browse clothing and accessories, with plenty to discover.
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ⓒShin Yu-jeong Tongin MarketA traditional market known for its stir-fried tteokbokki and its “brass coin” lunchbox experience called yeopjeon dosirak.
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Seoul's Hottest Spot Right Now - Where to Shop and Sip
Gwanghwamun area is easy to get around thanks to excellent public transportation, and it’s also ideal for exploring on foot. Here’s a one-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Gwanghwamun.
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Explore Korea’s Makgeolli Culture in SeoulExperience Korea’s unique makgeolli culture. Korea’s unrefined rice wine, or makgeolli, is a familiar alcoholic beverage that has been loved for a long time.
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Seosulla Street: Fusion Cuisine with TraditionsFollow the paths taken by the royal night watch to connect Seoul’s past with the present.
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A Sentimental Walk through Seochon VillageSeochon Village is an old hanok neighborhood located to the west of Gyeongbokgung Palace.
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Feel Korea's Vibe in the Center of Seoul!The must-visit courses in Seoul. Go around the palaces and plazas, as well as art museums, museums, and traditional markets.
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Gwanghwamun Square is easily accessible from Gwanghwamun Station (Seoul Subway Line 5), City Hall Station (Seoul Subway Lines 1 and 2), and Gyeongbokgung Station (Seoul Subway Line 3).
1. From Incheon International Airport to Gwanghwamun Gate
- By Bus: Take an airport limousine bus from Incheon International Airport (approx. 90 minutes).
- By AREX + Subway: Take the AREX express train to Seoul Station (40 minutes), then transfer to the subway to Gwanghwamun Station (approx. 10–20 minutes).
2. From Gimpo International Airport to Gwanghwamun Gate
- By Subway: Take Line 5 from Gimpo Airport Station to Gwanghwamun Station (approx. 40–50 minutes).
- By AREX + Subway: Take the AREX to Seoul Station, then transfer to the subway to Gwanghwamun Station (approx. 40–50 minutes total).
* Must-read safety guide for international visitors — Disaster & Safety Services >>
* Important: See Gwanghwamun Travel Safety Guidelines for March 21 >>
