Gyeongbokgung, Royal palace in Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea.
The complex encompasses 7700 rooms across 500 buildings on 99 acres (40 hectares) of land, featuring traditional Korean architecture, multiple throne halls, residential pavilions, and ornamental gardens.
Built in 1395 as the primary royal residence of the Joseon Dynasty, the structure was destroyed during the Imjin War and reconstructed in the 19th century under Prince Regent Heungseon Daewongun.
The National Palace Museum and National Folk Museum within the complex present exhibitions about Korean royal heritage and traditional daily customs.
The site operates seasonal schedules with extended hours from June through August and shorter visiting times during winter months, accessible via Gyeongbokgung subway station on Line 3.
Guards at Gwanghwamun Gate perform ceremonial changes hourly between 10 AM and 3 PM, wearing historical uniforms and reenacting traditional Joseon-era protocols.
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