April 02, 2026 – May 17, 2026

Gyeongbokgung Starlight Tour offers select-night access to Joseon's largest palace after dark, with the grounds illuminated and the daytime crowds gone (April 2 - May 17, specific dates only). The experience includes a guided walk through the palace's main ceremonial spaces - Heungnyemun Gate, Geunjeongjeon Hall, and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion - under atmospheric lighting. Tickets are extremely limited (around 2,000 per session) and sell out within minutes of release on the official booking site. Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), Exit 5 - arrive slightly before your ticketed session time.

The Experience

The Gyeongbokgung Palace Moonlight Tour — known as Starlight Tour — offers evening access to Gyeongbokgung Palace after regular closing hours, with the main halls, walkways, and ponds illuminated under night sky (select evenings April–October). The experience transforms the palace entirely: crowds gone, lanterns lit, the reflection pool in front of Gyeonghoeru Pavilion mirroring the lights and sky. It is one of the most popular nocturnal experiences in Seoul and tickets sell out immediately upon release.

Ticketing

Tickets are released in limited batches — typically on specific dates weeks in advance — through the Cultural Heritage Administration’s ticketing site (ticket.cha.go.kr) and Interpark. This is not an event where you can arrive and buy at the door. Set up an account and check ticket release dates in advance. Tickets are affordable but demand far exceeds supply on popular dates. The tour runs in groups with a guided Korean commentary; English audio guides or printed guides may be available.

Getting There & Tips

• Subway: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), Exit 5
• Tickets: ticket.cha.go.kr or Interpark — release dates announced 2-4 weeks in advance
• Dress appropriately: Evening temperatures drop in spring and autumn — bring a layer even if the day was warm
• Photography: Gyeonghoeru Pavilion reflection at night is one of the most-photographed scenes in Seoul — bring your best camera