Gwanghwamun Square is one of those places in Seoul that you might see in a tourism ad or documentary video about South Korea, however you might not recognize the name right off. It's a place for the people that is a must see if you ever travel to Seoul. Located in the northern part of Seoul between two ways of traffic and right above Gwanghwamun Station, you shouldn't have any trouble locating this historic area. Pictured above is the "Sunken Square", located between the statues of Admiral Yi Sun-Shin and King Sejong the Great, where you can access the subway station. This will put you right in the middle of Gwanghwamun Square, which is why I recommend traveling to this are via the train.
Gwanghwamun Square
Here lies Gwanghwamun Square on Sejong-ro where the ancient history of Korea still rings today. Yukjo Street - embodying the glory of kings and citizens together in the Joseon Dynasty - is being transformed into a symbolic square that signals new directions for a humane and cultural society with openness and mutual respect. The statue of King Sejong the Great, who devised the Korea alphabet Hangeul and presided over our cultural splendor, finally sits here along with that of Admiral Yi Sun-Shin. The City of Seoul hopes that this square will give unforgettable experiences to visitors who come to see and feel the magnificent and dynamic history of Seoul and dream of happiness and common prosperity in the future.
October 9, 2009
Sehoon Oh, Mayor of Seoul
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| Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-Shin over Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul, South Korea |
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| Statue of King Sejong the Great at Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul, South Korea |
When visiting this popular site, you'll also have an opportunity to explore below the square at the "King Sejong Stories" exhibition and learn about the origin of Hangeul, the Korean alphabet, as well as some of South Korea's long history. There is also a gift shop, cafe, as well as restroom facilities available to visitors. During our time there we were also able to practice traditional calligraphy. This activity was geared more toward children, but it'd still be a cool experience. Viewing the exhibition is free of charge.
While walking around the square, you're likely to see younger adults dressed in traditional Korean dress called hanbok. Many girls and even some tourists come in this attire and take photos in front of Gwanghwamun Gate and other historic places. You can rent hanbok for a small fee at some shops and have your own palace experience, since admission is free to these historic sites for those dressed in the traditional garb.
More information on renting hanbok here.
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| It's not uncommon for tourists to take photos of those wearing hanbok. I'm a tourist taking a photo of a tourist taking a photo of Korean girls in hanbok. Ha! |
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| Gwanghwamun Gate, entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the five palaces in Seoul (and arguably the most beautiful) |
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| Today the palace was closed, so we were unable to go inside. Aside from that fact, it was kind of cold. We plan to return on a warmer day when it's open! |
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| So many selfies! I have never seen a culture of young people so enthralled with taking photos of themselves for social media. There are cell phones everywhere and everyone is on them! Not even in America is it this common, if you can imagine. |
In addition to seeing people dressed in traditional hanbok, you might also notice peaceful protests occurring at Gwanghwamun Square. Lately, there have been protests against THAAD, a missile defense system that recently arrived here in South Korea.
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| I enjoy some of the architecture unique to Korea. This building is located adjacent to the square. |
Gwanghwamun Square holds much to see. You could easily spend an entire day in this area, visiting the square and then proceeding into the palace to explore. It's easily accessed via the subway, which I recommend utilizing. Located nearby is the Cheonggyecheon Stream, if you'd like to check that out as well while you're in the area.
The Details
- Where: Jiha 172, Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- 서울특별시 종로구 세종대로 지하 172 (세종로)
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