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Gyeongbokgung Palace's night opening, held annually in spring and autumn, offers a distinct nocturnal view of the historic palace, drawing significant public interest. Subtle lighting illuminates the eaves of the palace buildings after dark, creating a unique ambiance. The second half of 2026's night opening runs from September 2nd to October 2nd, with visiting hours from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Last entry is at 8:30 PM, and the palace is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Online advance booking is mandatory for Gyeongbokgung night opening tickets, and on-site ticket purchases are not available for domestic visitors. Bookings are made via NOL Ticket, and if tickets are sold out, checking frequently for cancellations is a recommended strategy. Foreign visitors can purchase up to 300 tickets daily on-site with a passport or ID. Free admission is granted to infants under 6, seniors over 65, and national merit recipients.
Bloggers highlight that wearing Hanbok allows for free entry without prior reservation, serving as a valuable tip for enjoying the night opening. It is also suggested to enter before sunset to experience both the palace in daylight with the sunset and its illuminated night view. The nightscapes of major structures like Heungnyemun, Yeongjegyo, Geunjeongjeon, and Gyeonghoeru are particularly striking and popular photo spots for many visitors.
