Updated October 29, 2026
Gyeongbokgung changing of the guard
The royal guard changing ceremony at Gyeongbokgung runs twice a day, at 10:00 and 14:00. It lasts about 20 minutes and you don't need a ticket to watch.
Times at a glance
| Royal guard changing ceremony | 10:00 · 14:00 |
|---|---|
| Length | about 20 min |
| Gwanghwamun gate guard ceremony | 11:00 · 13:00 |
| Guard training (public) | 9:35 · 13:35 |
| No ceremony | Tuesdays |
Times from visitor guides and the Korea tourism listing, checked October 2026. The schedule can change.
Where to stand
The main ceremony takes place in the open square between Gwanghwamun, the big front gate on the street, and Heungnyemun, the second gate. It's outside the ticket gate, so you can watch before you go in.
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early if you want a front spot for photos. The guards march in from the side, so the edges of the square fill first.
Two ceremonies, not one
People often mix these up. The changing ceremony at 10:00 and 14:00 is the long one, with drums, flags and the handover between two groups of guards. The Gwanghwamun gate ceremony at 11:00 and 13:00 is shorter, about 10 minutes, at the front gate.
When it doesn't happen
There's no ceremony on Tuesdays, when the palace is closed. It's also called off in heavy rain and during extreme heat. In August 2026 the ceremonies were suspended during the highest heat-wave alert.
In hanbok? The 10:00 ceremony fits a morning rental well. Pick up your hanbok near Gyeongbokgung Station around 9:30, watch the guards at 10:00, then walk straight into the palace for free. See the full half-day plan →
Questions
What time is the changing of the guard at Gyeongbokgung?
The Gyeongbokgung royal guard changing ceremony is held at 10:00 and 14:00, every day except Tuesday, and lasts about 20 minutes.
Do I need a ticket to watch?
No. The ceremony takes place in the square outside the ticket gate, so anyone can watch for free.
Is it cancelled when it rains?
It can be. Heavy rain, extreme heat and special events can cancel or shorten it, so check on the day if the weather is bad.