Most travelers want to make the most of their limited time and budget. That’s why this blog exists

Most travelers want to plan the right itinerary using their limited time and budget wisely — dreaming of discovering a new world and enjoying the freedom of a getaway. That’s why I started this blog: to help you design a clear, realistic plan and start your Korean adventure with confidence. 🏙️ Seeing Seoul with Fresh Eyes I was born and raised in Seoul, but after living in Canada for many years, coming back felt like stepping into a completely new world. So much had changed — new buildings, new trends, even new ways of life. As I explored the city again, this time as a returning expat, I started to understand Seoul in a different way. That’s when I decided to share my experience to help people who are visiting Korea for the first time. 🌏 Why So Many People Want to Visit Korea These days, Korea is more popular than ever, thanks to K-pop, K-dramas, and social media. People from all over the world are excited to see the places they’ve only watched on screen. But Korea isn’t just abou...

Seasonal Travel Tips 3: Gyeongbokgung Palace Night Tour (Autumn 2025)


 Every autumn, Gyeongbokgung Palace transforms into a breathtaking nighttime spectacle. With elegant lantern-lit pathways, iconic halls glowing against the evening sky, and the chance to enjoy the palace away from daytime crowds, this is one of the most beloved seasonal events in Seoul.

Here’s everything you need to know for the 2025 Autumn Night Tour at Gyeongbokgung Palace.

 

📅 Dates & Hours

  • Period: September 3 (Wed) – September 28 (Sun), 2025
  • Closed: Every Monday & Tuesday, and October 4 (holiday closure)
  • Time: 19:00 – 21:30 (last admission at 20:30)

 

🎟 Admission & Capacity

  • General Admission Fee: 3,000 KRW (ages 7–64, Korean & foreign visitors)
  • Daily Visitor Quota: 3,300 people
  • Free Admission Categories:
    • Hanbok wearers (Korean & foreign)
    • Children under 6
    • Seniors 65+
    • National merit honorees and registered disabled persons
      (Valid ID or related documents required at entry)

 

📍 Open Areas

During night openings, visitors can explore:

  • Gwanghwamun, Heungnyemun
  • Geunjeongjeon, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion
  • Sajikjeon, Gangnyeongjeon, Gyotaejeon
  • Amisan Garden

These are among the palace’s most photogenic spots, especially with night lighting.

 

🛒 Ticket Reservation

  • Internet Booking:
    • Period: Aug 27 (Wed) 10:00 – Sep 27 (Sat) 23:59, 2025
    • Limit: Up to 4 tickets per person
    • Website: Interpark Ticket
  • On-Site Ticketing (for foreigners):
    • 200 tickets daily at Gwanghwamun (max 2 per person)
    • Passport or ID required

 

🧾 Ticket Collection & Entry

  • Mobile Ticket: Sent via KakaoTalk (Uforus channel) on the day of admission after 12:00. Scan the QR code at the gate.
  • Paper Ticket: Collect at the kiosk with your phone number or reservation code, then scan the QR code for entry.
  • Important: Only one entry method (mobile or paper) can be used per reservation.

 

⚠️ Notes & Tips

  • Reservation closes one day before your visit (no same-day booking).
  • Cancellations are possible until 17:00 on the day before.
  • Night visits mean darker pathways—watch your step when moving between halls.
  • Gyeongbokgung at night shines even more brightly than during the day, making this event extremely popular—book early!

 

📝 Summary Table

Item

Details

Period

Sep 3 – Sep 28, 2025 (closed Mon/Tue & Oct 4)

Hours

19:00 – 21:30 (last entry 20:30)

Admission

3,000 KRW (ages 7–64)

Free Admission

Hanbok wearers, children under 6, seniors 65+, national merit & disabled (with ID)

Capacity

3,300 visitors per day

Open Areas

Gwanghwamun, Heungnyemun, Geunjeongjeon, Gyeonghoeru, Sajikjeon, Gangnyeongjeon, Gyotaejeon, Amisan

Booking

Interpark (online), limited on-site tickets for foreigners

Tips

Reserve early, bring ID, watch your step at night

 

Final Thoughts

The Gyeongbokgung Night Tour offers a rare glimpse of Seoul’s most iconic palace under the stars. With limited dates, affordable tickets, and stunning photo opportunities, it’s a must-see seasonal event for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers. If your trip falls in September, don’t miss this unforgettable evening experience.

 

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