Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul - Gwanghwamun Square
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Gwanghwamun Square Seoul

4.5
·13k reviews·, South Korea

A grand public square in Seoul, blending historical monuments with modern art installations and vibrant festivals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter evenings

Festive lights and markets

CrowdHigh
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Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul - Gwanghwamun Square

Gwanghwamun Square Seoul

Best Time

Winter evenings

Festive lights and markets

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A grand public square in Seoul, blending historical monuments with modern art installations and vibrant festivals.

4.5
(13k reviews)

"Gwanghwamun Square is a must-visit for its blend of history, culture, and dazzling light festivals."

Vertical photo
TIP

Use Local Maps 🗺️

Google Maps is unreliable in Korea. Download Naver Maps or KakaoMap for accurate navigation.

Check Event Schedules 📅

Gwanghwamun Square hosts many festivals. Check dates to catch events or avoid crowds.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

King Sejong the Great Statue

King Sejong the Great Statue

Gwanghwamun Square

A majestic bronze statue honoring Korea's most revered king, a symbol of wisdom and progress.

Admiral Yi Sun-sin Statue

Admiral Yi Sun-sin Statue

Gwanghwamun Square

Commemorating the legendary naval hero who defended Korea against Japanese invasions.

Seoul Lantern Festival

Seoul Lantern Festival

Cheonggyecheon Stream to Cheonggye Square

A dazzling display of illuminated lanterns, transforming the city into a magical wonderland.

Instagram+1
Seoul Light Gwanghwamun

Seoul Light Gwanghwamun

Gwanghwamun Square

Spectacular digital art projections that illuminate the historic Gwanghwamun Gate.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Gwanghwamun Square is a vibrant hub, but crowds can swell during major events like the Seoul Lantern Festival or Christmas Market. Check event schedules to plan your visit and potentially avoid peak times for a more relaxed experience. Instagram+1

Navigating Seoul's Streets

While Gwanghwamun Square is centrally located, getting around Seoul is best done via public transport. Download local map apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMap, as Google Maps can be unreliable for navigation in Korea. Reddit

Best Times

When
Winter evenings
Why
Festive lights and markets
Crowd
High
When
Spring and Autumn afternoons
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Gunna try posting more recs for Korea 😀 #seoultravel #lifeinkorea #cheonggyecheon #gwanghwamun #amiewinestudioseoul
@annainseoul
32.9K likes • 303.2K views

Use Local Maps 🗺️

Google Maps is unreliable in Korea. Download Naver Maps or KakaoMap for accurate navigation. Reddit

Check Event Schedules 📅

Gwanghwamun Square hosts many festivals. Check dates to catch events or avoid crowds. Instagram+1

Seoul Light Gwanghwamun is back this year! This year, global media artists have artistically portrayed Seoul’s present and future. 2024 Seoul Light Gwanghwamun 📍 Address: 1-68 Sejong-ro, Jongno-gu, ...
thesoulofseoulblog
1.7K likes • 32.6K views
2024 Seoul Winter Festa Highlights: 1. Seoul Lantern Festival 🗓️ Dec. 13, 2024 – Jan. 12, 2025 📍 Samilgyo Bridge to Cheonggye Square (Exit 1, Euljiro 3-ga Station) 2. Gwanghwamun Market 🗓️ Dec. 13, ...
mr_mallu_bro
82 likes • 14.5K views

Wear Comfy Shoes 👟

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the square and surrounding areas. Reddit

Visit Kyobo Bookstore 📚

A must-visit for book lovers, located near Gwanghwamun Square. Reddit

Seoul Light Festival 2025🔆💡🌈 Happy New Year 2025 #seoul #gwangwamunsquare #lightfestival #lenternfestival #2025 #southkorea #foreignerinkorea #happynewyear
lara_javaid
61 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Use Local Maps 🗺️

Google Maps is unreliable in Korea. Download Naver Maps or KakaoMap for accurate navigation. Reddit

Check Event Schedules 📅

Gwanghwamun Square hosts many festivals. Check dates to catch events or avoid crowds. Instagram+1

Wear Comfy Shoes 👟

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the square and surrounding areas. Reddit

Visit Kyobo Bookstore 📚

A must-visit for book lovers, located near Gwanghwamun Square. Reddit

Enjoy the Night Views ✨

The square and nearby Cheonggyecheon Stream are beautifully lit up at night. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(13k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Gwanghwamun Square for its historical significance and vibrant atmosphere, especially during festivals. The iconic statues and the grandeur of the square are major highlights. However, some find it can get very crowded during popular events, and navigating with non-local map apps can be a minor inconvenience.

"After visiting the palace, we walked through the main gate to this lively road full of locals and tourists. Janice way to explore Seoul street life. Best time to do this walk is in the evening, walk from the palace gate through this area to the stream."

P S

"It is great place to visit especially during cherry blossom week. Chilly weather make a difference for the week but it did not stop the crowd. Highly recommend to get your Hanbook in for photo shooting"

tung how run

"This walking area is insanely awesome. Especially when Netflix is putting out the squid game promotion. There were people everywhere, the dolls were standing around, even the guards were there. There are sitting areas and there's all these famous buildings around the plaza. It's a must for any visitor to Seoul. It takes you straight to the Royal Palace and the Royal museum. Easily get here using the subway which by the way is very easy to ride."

David Lan

What People Like

Iconic statues
Vibrant festivals
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Crowded during events
Map app issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gwanghwamun Square is easily accessible by Seoul's subway system. Take Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station (Exit 2 or 9) or Line 1 to City Hall Station (Exit 1 or 2). For Cheonggyecheon Stream, use Euljiro 3-ga Station (Lines 2 & 5, Exit 1). Reddit

Yes, Gwanghwamun Square is a major landmark in central Seoul, located directly in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace. It's hard to miss! Reddit

For navigation in Seoul, it's highly recommended to use local apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMap, as Google Maps is not fully functional for driving or walking directions. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Myeongdong to Gwanghwamun Square, taking about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the subway one stop on Line 4 to Chungmuro and transfer to Line 5 to Gwanghwamun. Reddit

While there are parking lots available, they can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially during events. Public transportation is generally the most convenient option. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Gwanghwamun Square itself is a public space and is free to enter. However, specific events or attractions within or around the square may have admission fees. Instagram+1

Gwanghwamun Square is open 24/7 as it's a public plaza. However, individual attractions or events held there will have their own operating hours. Instagram+1

No, the statues of King Sejong the Great and Admiral Yi Sun-sin are public monuments within Gwanghwamun Square and are free to view. Reddit

The Seoul Lantern Festival typically runs from mid-December to mid-January. It's best to check the official dates for the year you plan to visit, as it's a popular event. Instagram+1

Seoul Light Gwanghwamun is usually a free public art installation. Check the official Seoul Light website for specific dates and any potential changes. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin offer great photo opportunities. The Gwanghwamun Gate itself, especially when lit up at night, is also a stunning subject. Reddit

Absolutely! The Seoul Lantern Festival is a photographer's dream. Be prepared for crowds, especially around the most impressive lantern displays. Instagram+1

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. Nighttime is also spectacular, especially during light festivals or when the square is illuminated. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, be mindful of any temporary restrictions during special events or if photographing specific exhibits. Reddit

For night shots with light trails, consider using a tripod and a longer exposure time. Experiment with aperture and ISO to achieve the desired effect. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The area around Gwanghwamun Square offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Korean restaurants to modern cafes. You can find recommendations for Korean fusion or Han Ok style restaurants. Reddit

While some restaurants can be pricey, exploring side streets and smaller eateries can lead to more budget-friendly options. Look for local 'Gukbap' (rice soup) or 'Bibimbap' places. Reddit

Consider trying traditional dishes like 'Samgyetang' (ginseng chicken soup) or 'Bulgogi' (marinated grilled beef). For a more unique experience, look for Korean fusion restaurants. Reddit

Yes, there are several cafes located within or very close to Gwanghwamun Square, offering a place to rest and enjoy a beverage. Reddit

While Gwanghwamun Square itself might not have extensive street food, nearby areas like Insadong or Myeongdong are known for their vibrant street food scenes. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gwanghwamun Square offers a great open space for families to explore. The statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin can spark curiosity about Korean history for children. During festivals like the Seoul Lantern Festival, the illuminated displays are particularly enchanting for younger visitors. Instagram+1

Consider visiting during daylight hours for easier navigation and to allow kids to run around. Nearby attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace (though requiring a separate ticket) offer more historical context and space for exploration. Pack snacks and drinks, as while there are cafes, dedicated family-friendly dining might require a short walk. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Gwanghwamun Square itself is a free attraction, making it an excellent budget-friendly destination. The main drawcards – the statues and the general ambiance of the square – cost nothing to enjoy. Reddit Taking the subway is also an economical way to get around Seoul. Reddit

To save on food, explore local eateries away from the immediate tourist hotspots or consider grabbing some delicious and affordable street food from nearby areas like Insadong or Myeongdong. Pack a reusable water bottle to refill at public fountains or cafes. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Gwanghwamun Square offers a rich tapestry of subjects. The imposing statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin provide strong focal points, especially during the golden hours. Reddit The Gwanghwamun Gate itself is a magnificent backdrop, particularly when illuminated at night or during events like Seoul Light Gwanghwamun. Instagram

The Seoul Lantern Festival is a prime opportunity for capturing stunning night photography, with intricate lantern designs creating magical scenes. Instagram+1 Remember to bring a tripod for low-light conditions and consider using local navigation apps to find the best vantage points and avoid getting lost in the crowds. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Seoul's History

Gwanghwamun Square is more than just a public space; it's a historical and cultural nexus in Seoul. Flanked by Gyeongbokgung Palace on one side and the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts on the other, the square serves as a grand promenade. It was established as part of an ambitious urban renewal project, transforming a busy roadway into a pedestrian-friendly zone that celebrates Korean heritage. TikTok

The square is dominated by two iconic statues: King Sejong the Great, the revered monarch credited with creating the Korean alphabet (Hangul), and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a national hero celebrated for his victories against Japanese naval forces. These figures represent key aspects of Korean identity – intellectualism and resilience. Reddit

Beyond the statues, the square often hosts public events, exhibitions, and festivals, making it a dynamic space that reflects the pulse of modern Seoul while remaining deeply rooted in its past. It's a place where history, culture, and daily life converge.

Experiencing Gwanghwamun Square's Festivals

Gwanghwamun Square truly comes alive during its various festivals, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Korean culture and celebration. The Seoul Lantern Festival, often held along the nearby Cheonggyecheon Stream, transforms the area into a magical spectacle of light and color. Visitors can wander through a dazzling array of illuminated lanterns, each telling a story or depicting traditional motifs. Instagram+1

During the winter months, the square often hosts festive markets, such as the Christmas Market or Seoul Winter Festa, bringing a cozy and celebratory atmosphere. These markets are perfect for finding unique souvenirs, enjoying seasonal treats, and soaking in the holiday spirit. InstagramReddit

Another highlight is Seoul Light Gwanghwamun, a captivating digital art exhibition that projects stunning visuals onto the historic Gwanghwamun Gate. This modern art installation offers a unique blend of technology and heritage, creating a memorable visual experience, especially after dark. Instagram It's advisable to check the event schedules in advance to plan your visit around these vibrant celebrations.

Navigating Seoul Like a Local

Getting around Seoul, especially to and from Gwanghwamun Square, is most efficiently done using the city's extensive public transportation network. While Google Maps is a familiar tool for many travelers, it's crucial to know that it has limited functionality for navigation in South Korea. Naver Maps and KakaoMap are the go-to applications for locals and are highly recommended for accurate directions, real-time traffic updates, and public transport information. Reddit

Subway lines are the backbone of Seoul's transit system. Gwanghwamun Square is directly served by Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5), making it incredibly convenient to reach. Other nearby stations include City Hall (Line 1 & 2) and Gyeongbokgung (Line 3), offering further accessibility. Reddit For those looking to explore beyond the immediate vicinity, understanding the subway map and using these local navigation apps will significantly enhance your travel experience and help you avoid the frustration of unreliable mapping services. Reddit

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