"Guarding the Palace Gates: Witnessing the Timeless Tradition of the Changing of the Royal Guards at Gyeongbokgung Palace"
As one of the most iconic and traditional experiences in Seoul, the changing of the royal guards at Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The ceremony takes place every day at 10:00 AM, except on Tuesdays when the palace is closed. Here is a guide to help you fully appreciate this fascinating experience.
At the entrance of Gyeongbokgung Palace, visitors are transported back in time as they see the traditional guards dressed in bright red and blue uniforms, complete with intricate headpieces and weapons. These guards are responsible for protecting the royal palace and conducting the changing of the guard ceremony.
At precisely 10:00 AM, the old guards start to march out of the palace gates to be replaced by the new guards. The guards march in perfect unison, creating an impressive sight for visitors to behold. The ceremony is accompanied by traditional Korean music, adding to the ambiance of the experience.
As the new guards take their positions, visitors can witness the intricate process of their uniform inspection. Each guard is inspected to ensure that their uniforms are clean, pressed, and that they have maintained the high standard of appearance.
The highlight of the ceremony is the replacement of the main guard, known as the "Junggun," who is responsible for protecting the king. The Junggun is replaced with precision and ceremony, with the old Junggun giving his weapon to the new Junggun as a symbol of the transfer of power.
After the changing of the guard ceremony, visitors can explore the palace grounds and marvel at the ancient architecture and beauty of the palace. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, offering insights into the history of the palace and the lives of the Korean royal family.
In conclusion, the changing of the royal guards at Gyeongbokgung Palace is a fascinating and unique experience that allows visitors to step back in time and appreciate the beauty and history of Korean culture. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Seoul, and is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Location: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
Opening Hours: Gyeongbokgung Palace is open every day of the week except for Tuesdays. The palace's opening hours are as follows:
March to October: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:00 PM)
November to February: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM)
Please note that the palace may be closed on certain days for maintenance or special events, so it's always a good idea to check the official website before planning your visit.
Admission Fees: The admission fee for Gyeongbokgung Palace is 3,000 Korean won for adults (approximately $2.50 USD) and 1,500 Korean won for children (approximately $1.20 USD). There is no charge for children under the age of 6 or for seniors aged 65 and over.
How to Get There: Gyeongbokgung Palace is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take the subway to Gyeongbokgung Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), which is located just a short walk from the palace. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus to Gyeongbokgung Palace Bus Stop, which is served by multiple bus routes.
