Gyeongbokgung

Grandest palace of the Joseon Dynasty (1395) in central Seoul – with hourly changing of the guard and historic gardens.

Gyeongbokgung – the "Palace of Shining Happiness" – is the first and grandest of Seoul's five great royal palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Founded in 1395, it served as the primary royal residence for around 200 years before being almost completely burned down by Japanese invaders during the Imjin War (1592–1598). A large-scale reconstruction took place only in the 19th century. The palace complex, with more than 500 buildings and pavilions, ponds and ceremonial gardens, is one of Korea's most significant historic sites. Particularly well known is the hourly changing of the guard at the Gwanghwamun main gate, performed in historical costume. Restoration work continues to bring more and more buildings back to the public.