Divided into different realms, this enormous square has a range of attractions that provide an insight into the city’s local traditions and history.
Gwanghwamun Square is a large plaza adorned with fascinating sculptures, royal buildings and charming garden areas. It has a scenic setting, with traditional buildings at its center and a mountainous backdrop in the distance. Make your way through the various themed sections of the square to better understand the history and culture of Seoul.
Enjoy the serenity in this open space in the center of the city and appreciate the gorgeous views of the Bukaksan Mountain. Relax next to the pond and other water features in the Downtown Plaza section, where your kids can watch water jetting into the air. Stroll along the bridge that crosses the waterway in the Cheonggyecheon Stream Connector area and study the traditional tiered form of the Cheonggyecheon Palace.
Near the entrance to the square, you’ll find a section called Recovering the History of Gwanghwamun Gate Plaza. Marvel at the statue of Haetae, the legendary unicorn lion thought to protect people from fire. It stands beside an impressive stone foundation known as Woldae.
For something a little different, arrive in the Reenacting Yukjo Street Plaza area. It features a re-creation of the main street running through Seoul’s historic center. Inspect the miniature model of the Old Town area.
Among the square’s highlights is the King Sejong the Great Statue, in the Korea Main Plaza section. Check out the fountain on which a digital depiction of the Korean alphabet is projected. Notice the Admiral Yi Sun-Shin Statue in the adjacent Civil Participation Urban Culture Plaza area. Explore some of the exhibition halls and art galleries in this part of the square.
Find Gwanghwamun Square in the Sejongo district, a little north of central Seoul. Get off at the Gwanghwamun Station in the heart of the square and travel around the area on foot.
While here, make sure to see other nearby highlights such as the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Jagyeongjeon Chamber.
