What Makes Gwanghwamun Square So Special?
Located in central Seoul, Gwanghwamun Square is not just another plaza. Named after Gwanghwamun, the main gate of the royal palace Gyeongbokgung, it is deeply symbolic of Koreas national identity. Guarded by towering statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, this square tells Koreas storypast and present.
It's where history meets modernity, where government buildings, cultural sites, and everyday citizens merge in one shared space.
Facing Koreas Past: The Square of History
Gwanghwamun Square sits directly in front of Gyeongbokgung, once the political center of the Joseon Dynasty. Today, it remains a cultural powerhouse, surrounded by the Blue House (Cheongwadae), Constitutional Court, and various ministries.
One of the squares highlights is the changing of the royal guard ceremony at the palace. Vibrant and traditional, its a crowd favorite. Best photo opportunities? Between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., when sunlight hits the palace just right.
Gyeongbokgung Official Website
Koreas Greatest Heroes: King Sejong and Admiral Yi
Standing proudly in the middle of the square are two statuesKing Sejong the Great, creator of the Korean alphabet (Hangeul), and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, the naval hero who defended Korea with his famous turtle ships.
Below these statues are underground exhibitions where visitors can explore their stories. Its a deep dive into Koreas scientific, linguistic, and military heritagefree of charge.
Photo Paradise All Year Round
What makes Gwanghwamun Square so captivating is how it changes with each season:
Season Features Best Shot Idea
| Spring | Cherry blossoms, palace walls | Hanbok walk with floral background |
| Summer | Fountain shows, evening lights | Night shots with long exposure |
| Fall | Autumn leaves, blue skies | Sunset portraits |
| Winter | Christmas lights, snowy palace | Drone-friendly wide shots |
Winter transforms the square into a romantic winter wonderland, with glowing trees and quiet elegance.
The Most Instagrammable Spot in Seoul?
Absolutely. The square offers unobstructed views of the palace and mountains, making it a dream for content creators. Whether you're using a smartphone or DSLR, your feed is about to glow.
Golden hour (67 p.m.) is ideal. And yes, drones are allowedbut only with prior permission.
Drone Filming Guidelines - Seoul
Super Accessible: The Center of Everything
Thanks to Gwanghwamun Station (Subway Line 5), the square is easily accessible from anywhere in Seoul. Buses also connect the area to popular spots like Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, and Dongdaemun.
Its perfect for your first stop after landingor your last memory before leaving Korea.
Dress Like Royalty: Try on a Hanbok
The area around the square is full of hanbok rental shops. Walking around in traditional Korean attire, especially with the palace as a backdrop, is an unforgettable experience.
And heres a bonus: Free entry to Gyeongbokgung for those wearing a hanbok! Many shops offer online reservations and discounts.
Two Faces: Gwanghwamun by Day and Night
By day, the square is busy with workers and tourists. By night, the mood changessoft lights illuminate the statues and fountains glow blue, creating a calm yet magical atmosphere.
The square has starred in many Korean dramas, films, and travel vlogs. It's not just a locationits a mood.
Conclusion: Begin Your Story in the Heart of Seoul
Gwanghwamun Square isnt just a place. Its where Koreas pride, memory, and modern life come together. To stand there is to stand on the timeline of a nationlooking back, living now, and stepping into the future.
First-timers or repeat travelers alike will always find something new at Gwanghwamun. So if youre wondering where to begin your Seoul adventurestart at the center, start at Gwanghwamun Square.
