Gwanghwamun

This is the main and largest gate of Gyeongbokgung, the principal Joseon-dynasty palace in central Seoul. First built in 1395, it was destroyed during the Imjin War, rebuilt in the 19th century, and reconstructed again after wartime damage in the 20th century. The stone-based, wooden-roofed gate faces a broad ceremonial plaza and is guarded by a changing-of-the-guard ceremony staged in period costume several times daily. Visitors gather here for the axial view toward the palace throne hall and the mountains beyond.