Gwanghwamun Plaza

Gwanghwamun Plaza

Gwanghwamun Plaza is an open space stretching from the main gate of Gwanghwamun in present-day Seoul to the nearby intersection. It was once the symbolic Six Ministries Street of the ancient Korean capital, Hanseong, and is now an important leisure and recreational spot for Seoul residents.

Gwanghwamun Plaza is famous for its statues of General Yi Sun-sin and King Sejong the Great. The statue of King Sejong the Great stands in the center of the plaza, measuring 6.2 meters in height, 4.3 meters in width, and weighing 20 tons, and is mounted on a 4.2-meter-high pedestal. The plaza also displays scientific instruments invented under the leadership of King Sejong, such as Hangul (the Korean alphabet), a sundial, and a rain gauge. An exhibition area called "The Story of King Sejong" is set up underground, showcasing various materials and relics that reflect the life and achievements of King Sejong. Additionally, the plaza features a statue of Haechi, the mascot of Seoul, and a flower café. Alongside the plaza runs a water channel flowing across the pavement — the “History River.” The “12☯23 Gwanghwamun Fountain” beneath the statue of General Yi Sun-sin attracts the attention of passersby.

The night view of Gwanghwamun Plaza is especially beautiful. Visitors can not only admire the magnificent displays of the statue of King Sejong the Great and the “12☯23 Fountain,” but the “KT Hall” also frequently hosts art exhibitions and concerts for citizens.

GwanghwamunSquare

Must-visit reason: Seoul’s most historically rich plaza

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Korea[Korea]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Seoul Special City[SeoulSpecialCity]

City where the attraction is located: Jongno-gu[Jongno-gu]

Address: 161, Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Type: Historic site & World Cultural Heritage

Recommended visit duration: About 1 hour

Phone: +82-2-3700-39001

Official website: http://chinese.visitkorea.or.kr/chs/ATR/SI_CHG_2_1_1_1.jsp?cid=331215

Opening hours:

Gwanghwamun exterior: Open all day

Ticket information:

Free admission. No ticket is required to enter Gwanghwamun, but tickets are needed to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace inside.