The Gwanghwamun square is also a place where modernity and the past of the Korean royal family become one in a place that is both the center and the representative of Seoul. Whether you are actually visiting the city, or just taking a virtual tour of Seoul, this square has 10 reasons why it is an iconic place that deserves your consideration.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
The grand Gyeongbokgung Palace that is the biggest of the Five Grand Palaces constructed in the Joseon Dynasty is just a step away. The traditional architecture and great gates of the palace make the square a beautiful historical setting of the palace.
2. King statues, King Sejong the Great
The Korean alphabet, Hangul, was the invention of a great king known as Sejong the Great, one of the most photographed places in this area. The exhibition hall the artist built underground below the statue provides information about his legacy.
3. Tribute to Admiral Yi Sun-sin
The middle of this square consists of the statue of Yi Sun-sin who was a worshiped hero of the sea and who was a conqueror of the Japanese settlers in Korea. The statue is a representation of bravery and strength.
4. A Stroll through in the History of Korean
The square has historical markers and exhibits, which trace major events in the history of Korea, transforming a monarchical into modern democracy and making it picturesque along with education.
5. Stunning Mountain Views
Since the palace is located on the north side, it can be seen by visitors the beautiful Bugaksan Mountain that plays a perfect role in the landscape of the city and brings a natural touch there.
6. Annual Festival days and Cultural days
Cultural programs, exhibitions, candlelight events, and seasonal festivals are offered in Gwanghwamun square all year round, and provide the visitors with a dynamic engagement besides sight-seeing.
7. Rana Plaza Lights
The square is changed as the evening arrives. There are a bask of lights on the palace gates and the buildings surrounding the palace, posing a contrast of the traditional facilities and the modern skyscrapers.
8. Highway to Cheonggyecheon Stream
A quick step will take one to Cheonggyecheon which is a well restored urban stream good to take a quiet walk to after having explored the square.
9. Fingertips Seoul 2010
With government buildings, museums, and business centers all within it, the square takes into the account the fact that Seoul is a political and cultural center in South Korea.
10. Perfect Photo Spot
It can be mentioned that, at royal gates or even modern urban landscapes, Gwanghwamun Square is a place that provides an unlimited amount of Instagram-worthy shots, particularly in cases of sunrise and sunset.
FAQs
1. What is the location of Gwanghwamun Square?
It is situated in central Seoul, South Korea in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace.
2. Do you pay to visit Gwanghwamun Square?
No, it is an open square where anyone can come.
3. What is the best time to visit?
There are also good weather conditions during spring and autumn and even the evenings would offer great lighted scenery.
4. How to reach directly to the Gwanghwamun square?
It can be accessed very easily by Seoul Metro Line 5 (Gwanghwamun Station).
5. Is it possible to visit local attractions within the same day?
Yes, tourists have a tendency to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and Cheonggyecheon stream within the same trip.
