- First published
- Oct 11, 2026
National Palace Museum of Korea
A free national museum of Joseon royal-court and Korean Empire heritage beside Gyeongbokgung Palace, with objects linked to royal rituals, life, science and royal vehicles. Museum general admission is free; palace entry is separate. Official hours are 09:30–17:30 Monday–Friday and Sunday (last entry 17:00), and 09:30–21:00 Saturdays and the final Wednesday of each month (last entry 20:30).
Sunday October 11 is scheduled 09:30–17:30 (last entry 17:00), and Monday October 12 is not the regular monthly closing day; the next final Monday is October 26. Foreign-language guided tours in English, Japanese and Chinese are announced on selected weekday sessions between 13:00 and 15:00; check the museum's monthly language/date calendar rather than assuming a particular slot is available. Check for temporary schedule changes.
Why go
A useful indoor anchor before or after Gyeongbokgung Palace: compare genuine court objects with the architecture outside. Exit 5 of Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), around a two-minute walk. Gwanghwamun and Seochon offer separate nearby walking options. Palace night opening hours and festival programs do not govern the museum.
Plan the visit
Use the confirmed place facts below, then continue to the broader travel guides for transport, facilities and eating practicalities.