Walking with Kings: A Stroll Through Gwanghwamun Square

#springitinerary #gwanghwamunsquare #seoullandmarks #kingsejong #koreahistory #seoulcitywalk #culturalseoul #travelseoul #hangulpride #urbanexploration #iconicseoulspot Gwanghwamun Square is one of those places where modern Seoul meets its royal past — and you feel it the moment you step into the open plaza, flanked by traffic, tradition, and towering mountains in the distance. I came here expecting a quick photo stop, but ended up walking slowly, reading the plaques, and just soaking in the vibe of the city’s heartbeat. The square is home to two iconic statues — King Sejong the Great (the inventor of Hangul) and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, both standing proud and powerful with the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace just beyond. The square’s recent revamp has made it more pedestrian-friendly, with green spaces, water features, and places to sit and people-watch. What I loved most? That perfect moment when you look up and see Bugaksan Mountain behind the palace — it’s history, nature, and city energy all colliding in one powerful view. Travel Tips and How to Get There: • Best time to visit: • Morning or golden hour in the late afternoon for beautiful light and fewer crowds • What to bring: A camera, water, maybe a light snack to enjoy at the benches • Recommended experiences: • Take photos with the statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi • Walk toward Gyeongbokgung Palace for a seamless cultural stroll • Visit the underground exhibition hall beneath King Sejong’s statue for a quick but fun history lesson • Good for: History fans, city explorers, casual walkers, photographers • Vibe: Open, grand, reflective, proudly Korean How to Get There: • By subway: • Take Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station, Exit 2 • You’ll walk straight into the square from the exit • By foot: • It’s also walkable from City Hall or Gyeongbokgung Palace if you’re exploring the area • Pro tip: Combine this with a visit to the palace, Cheonggyecheon stream, or nearby museums for a full cultural day