Gyeongbokgung Palace

The jewel of Seoul's five historic palaces, Gyeongbokgung was built in 1395 by Lee Seong-Gye, founder of the Joseon Dynasty, who established the city as the capital of Korea. The magnificent rectangular palace, which now contains the National Folk Museum of Korea, features Royal apartments and staterooms, gardens and elegant lotus ponds. The pavilion features on the 10,000 won note. The palace is in a process of continual restoration as new archaeological treasures are uncovered and restored to their former glory.

Address: 1 Sejong-no, Jongno-gu
Website: www.royalpalace.go.kr
Telephone: (0)2 734 2458
Transport: Five-minute walk from exit 5 of Gyeongbokgung station (Seoul Subway Line 3)
Opening time: Daily except Tuesdays 9am to 6pm, closes at 5pm November to February
Admission: 3,000 won (adults 19-64 years old); 1,500 won (children 7-18 years old)