Gwanghwamun Square: What to Do and How to Get There

Gwanghwamun Square is like the Times Square of Seoul. It’s huge and always buzzing with activity. 

You’ll see locals and tourists alike hanging out here. The square is surrounded by some important buildings and statues. 

It’s really big – about 555 meters long and 34 meters wide. That’s like five and a half football fields put together!

The square is split into six parts. The coolest thing? It’s got two massive statues of some really important guys in Korean history: King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-shin.

King Sejong was this super smart king who created the Korean alphabet.

Admiral Yi was a naval commander who kicked butt in battles against Japan.

A Bit of History

Way back in the day, this place used to be called “Avenue of Six Ministries”. It was the center of the capital city during the Joseon Dynasty. Now, it’s where a bunch of government offices are.

From Road to Square

Here’s a fun fact: Gwanghwamun Square used to be a huge 16-lane road! Can you believe it?

In 2009, the Seoul government decided to turn 10 of those lanes into a public space.

They wanted to give people a place to hang out and relax. It took 15 months and a ton of money to build, but it was totally worth it!

Gwanghwamun Square Map

Tip: Grab a map from the tourist info center. They’re free and really handy!

How to Get to Gwanghwamun Square?

You can take the subway to Gwanghwamun Station and walk for just 2 minutes.

Nearest Subway Stations:

• Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 6) – 260m walk
• Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5, Exit 2) – 2 min walk
• Jonggak Station (Line 1, Exit 1) – 450m walk

What to Do in Gwanghwamun Square?

Gwanghwamun Square is like the heart of Seoul. There’s always something going on here. 

Let me tell you about some cool stuff you can do:

• Check out the statues

Gwanghwamun Square has two massive statues you can’t miss. One’s of King Sejong, the guy who created the Korean alphabet. The other’s Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a famous naval commander. They’re pretty impressive!

Tip: Look for the cool fountains around the statues. They’re great for photos!

• Visit the museums 

There are two neat underground museums right in the square. The Sejong Museum of History teaches you about King Sejong. The Admiral Yi Sun-sin Memorial Hall is all about… you guessed it, Admiral Yi. Both are free!

Tip: These museums are great to escape the heat or rain.

• Watch the changing of the guard 

Head to Gwanghwamun Gate and catch the changing of the guard ceremony. It’s like stepping back in time with all the colorful traditional outfits.

Tip: The ceremony happens several times a day. Check the schedule so you don’t miss it!

• People-watch and relax 

Gwanghwamun Square is perfect for chilling out. Grab a snack, find a spot to sit, and watch the world go by. You’ll see all sorts of people here.

Tip: Bring a picnic and make an afternoon of it!

• Attend a festival or event 

The square often hosts cultural events and festivals. There might be performances, markets, or exhibitions going on when you visit.

Tip: Check local event calendars online before your trip.

• Take photos 

Gwanghwamun Square is super photogenic. You’ve got the statues, the gate, and the mountains in the background. It’s Instagram heaven!

Tip: Early morning or sunset gives you the best lighting for photos.

• Shop at Gwanghwamun Underground Shopping Center 

Need a break from the sun? Head underground to this shopping center. It’s got tons of shops selling everything from clothes to souvenirs.

Tip: It’s a great place to buy cheap phone accessories or K-pop merch.

• Try street food 

There are usually food vendors around the square. Try some Korean street snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) or odeng (fish cakes).

Tip: Be adventurous! Korean street food is delicious and safe to eat.