Route C · Gyeongbokgung
Gyeongbokgung Photoshoot Guide: Hanbok & Photography Rules
Korea's grandest palace as your backdrop, with the practical details sorted.
Gyeongbokgung is the largest of Seoul's five royal palaces, and the most iconic. Gwanghwamun Gate, the mountains behind the throne hall, painted eaves and wide stone courtyards make dramatic, unmistakably Korean photos, especially in hanbok.
Here is what you need to know before planning a photoshoot there.
Gyeongbokgung at a glance
| Closed | Every Tuesday (changes are possible around public holidays) |
| Hours (Mar–May, Sep–Oct) | 9:00–18:00 |
| Hours (Jun–Aug) | 9:00–18:30 |
| Hours (Nov–Feb) | 9:00–17:00 |
| Last entry | One hour before closing |
| Adult admission | 3,000 KRW |
| In hanbok | Free entry when the outfit meets the palace's hanbok rules |
Hours and rules can change, so check the official palace information before your visit.
The Tuesday rule
Because Gyeongbokgung is closed on Tuesdays, a Route C session on a Tuesday uses the public areas around Gwanghwamun only, or switches to another route. Ashlee will flag this when checking your date.
Can you do a photoshoot inside the palace?
Casual photography as a visitor is part of the palace experience. Professional or commercial photoshoots inside palace grounds may require advance permission, depending on the type of shoot and equipment. Please don't assume every paid portrait session is automatically allowed inside.
With Ashlee Seoul Snap, Route C starts in the public areas around Gwanghwamun. Palace-interior shooting, hanbok rules, admission and any permits are checked case by case before you pay. If interior access isn't possible, the session stays in public areas.
Hanbok at Gyeongbokgung
Gyeongbokgung is the most popular palace for hanbok photos, and many rental shops are nearby.
- Rental is arranged separately and isn't included in the package.
- Free palace entry applies only to outfits that meet the palace's hanbok rules. Ask the rental shop if you're unsure.
- Allow time to change, style your hair and walk to the meeting point.
Read hanbok photoshoot in Seoul for more.
How Route C works
Route C: Gyeongbokgung & Gwanghwamun is available at the standard prices: $190 quick (30 min), $290 solo (60 min), $420 couple (90 min), $490 family (90 min). Session time includes walking between spots. Admission for you and the photographer, and any permits, are agreed before payment. See Seoul photoshoot prices.
Tips for better palace photos
- Arrive early. The gates open at 9:00, and the first hour is usually calmer.
- Avoid the busiest weekends if you can choose.
- Simple outfits or hanbok work best with bold palace colors.
- Respect the space. Don't climb on structures, sit on thresholds or lean on old walls.
Compare Route C with the other three routes.
Official information
- >Royal Palaces and Tombs Center: hours and closed days
- >Royal Palaces and Tombs Center: photography permit information
Frequently asked questions
What day is Gyeongbokgung closed?
Gyeongbokgung is closed every Tuesday, with changes possible around public holidays.
Is Gyeongbokgung free if you wear a hanbok?
Yes, visitors wearing a hanbok that meets the palace's hanbok rules get free entry. Regular adult admission is 3,000 KRW.
Can I book a professional photoshoot inside Gyeongbokgung?
Professional or commercial shoots inside palace grounds may require advance permission. Ashlee Seoul Snap starts Route C in the public areas around Gwanghwamun and checks interior access case by case before payment.
What are Gyeongbokgung's opening hours?
Generally 9:00–18:00 in spring and autumn, 9:00–18:30 in summer and 9:00–17:00 in winter, with last entry one hour before closing.