This broad, elongated square provides a grand approach to Gyeongbokgung and is used for various events (as well as protests). Giant statues celebrate two national heroes: Admiral Yi Sun-sin, 1545–98, who stands atop a plinth at the square's southern end; and King Sejong, 1397–1450, who sits regally on a throne in the middle of the square. An entrance at the base of the King Sejong statue leads down to an underground exhibition with sections on both the men.

King Sejong is revered as a scholar king of unmatched abilities. Admiral Yi Sun-sin designed new types of metal-clad warships called geobukseon (turtle boats), and used them to help achieve a series of stunning victories over the much larger Japanese navy that had attacked Korea at the end of the 16th century.


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1. King Sejong Statue

0.03 MILES

A statue of the revered scholar king (1397–1450) sits regally on a throne in the middle of Gwanghwamun. An entrance at the statue's base leads down to an…

3. Sejong Gallery

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The regularly changing exhibitions at the gallery in the Sejong Center, the largest cultural complex in Seoul, are generally worth a look for an insight…

5. Admiral Yi Sun-Sin Statue

0.12 MILES

This statue is a downtown landmark. Seoul-born Yi Sun-sin (1545–98) designed new types of metal-clad warships called geobukseon (turtle boats), and used…

6. Cheong-gye Plaza

0.22 MILES

Houses the towering pink-and-blue shell artwork and landmark entitled Spring. Part of the Cheong-gye-cheon pathway, there is always movement day and night…

7. Gwanghwamun

0.24 MILES

The impressive main gate to Seoul's premier palace is flanked by stone carvings of haechi, mythical lion-like creatures traditionally set to protect the…

8. Cheong-gye-cheon

0.25 MILES

With its landscaped walkways, footbridges, waterfalls and a variety of public artworks, such as the enormous pink-and-blue shell entitled Spring in Cheong…