Landmark

Gwanghwamun Gate

Seoul, South Korea

Candidate image for Gwanghwamun Gate in Seoul

Gwanghwamun is the main southern gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace, with three arched passages beneath a wooden pavilion. Its position has repeatedly shifted and been rebuilt through war and colonial rule; the present reconstruction returned the gate to its historic site and timber form in 2010.

Guide preview

The central arch is the largest, but historically it was reserved for the king; officials and the crown prince used the side passages. Gwanghwamun is Gyeongbokgung Palace’s main southern gate, first built in 1395.

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Quick facts

  • Gwanghwamun was first built in 1395.
  • The central arch was reserved for the king.
  • The gate was restored to its historic position and reopened in 2010.

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