The Changing of the Royal Guard is a reenactment of the guard ceremony performed by the royal guards during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) at the royal palace. Today, this ceremonial event takes place daily (except Tuesdays) in front of Gwanghwamun, the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace.

The royal guards were responsible for guarding and patrolling the gates of the palace and the fortress, including Heunginjimun (East Gate) and Sungnyemun (South Gate). The guards would open and close Gwanghwamun following a set procedure, ensuring the security of the king and the royal family at the heart of the nation.

The ceremony begins with the sounding of the first drum (Choeom), signaling the departing guard to proceed to Gwanghwamun. Once the second drum (Jungoeum) rolls, the guards move outside Gwanghwamun to exchange passwords and verify each other’s identity. The changing of the guard is then completed with the third drum (Samoeum), and the new guard takes their position as the previous guard departs.

What is the 'Royal Guard Changing Ceremony'?

•Changing of the Guard Ceremony:
   10AM / 2PM (twice daily, 20 minutes each)

•Gwanghwamun Guard-on-Duty Show:
   11AM / 1PM (twice daily, 10 minutes each)

•Try on Royal Guard Uniforms:
   before and after the Changing of the Guard and Guard-on-Duty show

•Public Military Training:
   9:35AM / 1:35PM (twice daily, 15 minutes each)

 ※ During winter (December-February) and summer (July-August), if temperatures fall below 10°C or rise above 30°C, the Gwanghwamun Guard-on-Duty performance will be shortened (the Changing of the Guard Ceremony will proceed as usual).

 ※ In case of rain or snow, only the Heungnyemun Guard-on-Duty show will take place.

Gyeongbokgung Palace Royal Guard Ceremony | Review