How to Experience the Changing of the Guard at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Last Updated on July 5, 2025
Flags flutter in the wind. Boots step in rhythm on the cobbled stone. Drums set the beat across the courtyard. The Changing of the Guard at Gyeongbokgung Palace is a choreographed flashback to Korea’s royal past. Bold colors. Fierce faces. Just ceremony.
If you’re visiting Seoul, Korea, this is one of the most vivid, photo-worthy, and FREE experiences you’ll find. But, there are some pro-tips to enjoying it and seeing the main palace of the capital. Let’s break it down.
Here’s how to enjoy Gyeongbokgung Palace’s Changing of the Guard like a pro, not just a bystander with a phone out.
- Basic Info
- What’s You’ll See
- What Most People Do (and Why You Might Not Want To)
- The Secret Warm Up Act
- A Smoother Way To See Gyeongbokgung Palace
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Basic Info
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 사직로 161 (세종로))
What time: Daily at 10:00am and 2:00pm.
Days: The palace is closed on Tuesdays.
Where: Just inside of Gyeongbokgung’s main gate.
No Ticket Required: You do not need a ticket to the palace to see the ceremony.
What’s You’ll See
The changing of the guard ceremony is a full-scale reenactment of a guard rotation from the Joseon Dynasty (1392 – 1910). As the ceremony begins, red and yellow-robed guards march in with fierce precision. The colors aren’t just for show, they’re symbolic. You’ll see these colors throughout the palace, learn more about dancheong and their beautiful decoration and protective techniques.
- Red: Fire & South -> Energy, authority
- Yellow: Earth & Center -> Power, status
- White: West
- Black: Water & North
- Blue/Green: Wood & East
The guards wear pleated overcoats (called cheollik) and tunic-like garments (bangnyeong), topped with round-rimmed hats (jeollip) woven from bamboo and crowned with feathers. Keep your eyes on the head guard: his robe is bright yellow, and his hat has a round yellow badge signaling rank.
Accompanying the formation are flag bearers hosting large, vibrantly illustrated banners, and musicians in crimson robes playing traditional wind and percussion instruments that command the entire square’s attention.
Don’t just watch, see more! What instruments are being played. Traditional instruments include conch shells and wind instruments. The guards carry halberds, swords, and shields with dragons and tigers painted on them.
Fun Fact: Launched in 2002, the changing of the guard ceremony was reconstructed based on historical records from 1469. The garb that is worn was recreated based on 15th-century practices found in surviving documents and artifacts.
What Most People Do (and Why You Might Not Want To)
Most visitors show up right on the hour and crowd around the main gate, squeezing in for a glimpse. It gets packed. People are shoulder to shoulder. As soon as the 20-minute ceremony ends, hundreds of people head straight into the palace. That means long lines, congested courtyards, and a less relaxing experience.
The Secret Warm Up Act
Guard training takes place just outside of the East Gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace, this is the gate closer to the parking lot. Interestingly, most people only stumble upon it if they’re headed to the bathroom while waiting for the main show or if they’re headed in from the parking lot at just the right time.
This is the royal guards rehearsal just before the ceremony. No PA system, no crowds, but the same vibrant costumes, pounding drums, and synchronization. You can actually stand quite a bit closer to the guards here than in the full reenactment to come.
- Where: Outside of the East Gate of the palace, headed toward the parking lot/bathrooms.
- What Time: 9:35am and 1:35pm
A Smoother Way To See Gyeongbokgung Palace
I’ve lived in Seoul since 2006 and have taken many a visitor to see the main palace of Seoul, Korea. It’s gorgeous and really is a must-visit. But, there’s a certain way I like to head in for a unique experience for the people I’m with.
- 9:30am: Watch the reenactment training on the outside of the East Gate.
- 10:00am: While the crowds are watching the official reenactment, head into the palace for a 20 minute head start to the buildings. Better views and less people.
- 12:00pm ~ 1:00pm: Have lunch nearby. Tongin Market is a great place on the western side of the palace, and there are a lot of great restaurants on the east side just north of the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art:
- 1:45pm: Start lining up for the reenactment. I recommend standing at the north barrier so you’re looking south toward the main gate and Gwanghwamun Square.
- 2:00pm: Watch the second ceremony in full and then depart when it’s finished.
The Changing of the Guard at Gyeongbokgung Palace isn’t just a spectacle, it’s a window into Korea’s dynastic past, reborn in full regalia. If you time it right, you’ll see the tradition, skip the chaos, and enjoy the palace like royalty.
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