Where History and Modern Seoul Meet
In the center of Seoul, where history and the rhythm of the city converge,
stands Gwanghwamun Square — a place that connects the past, present, and future.
And right at its core, two monumental figures look over the city:
King Sejong the Great, the wise creator of the Korean alphabet,
and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, the fearless naval commander who defended Korea’s seas.
These statues are more than memorials.
They are symbols of Korean pride, leadership, and national spirit,
a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Seoul’s soul.
Table of Contents
- Where History and Modern Seoul Meet
- Gwanghwamun Square – A Path Where Time and People Meet
- The Statue of King Sejong – The Light of Wisdom and the Father of Hangul
- 2. The Story of King Sejong Exhibition Hall
- The Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin – The Spirit of Courage and Honor
- Gwanghwamun Square – A Place of Reflection and Celebration
- Travel Information
- Where Pride Meets the Heart of Seoul
Gwanghwamun Square – A Path Where Time and People Meet
Located in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace,
Gwanghwamun Square stretches along Sejong-ro Avenue,
linking Seoul City Hall, Cheonggyecheon Stream, and the royal palace.
It is a space where modern architecture meets royal history.
Far more than a public plaza, it’s a cultural hub,
a peaceful walkway lined with fountains, flowers, and open skies.
Each season brings its own charm — spring blossoms, summer fountains,
autumn leaves, and winter snow.
And standing proudly through it all are the two guardians of Korea’s history:
King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin.
The Statue of King Sejong – The Light of Wisdom and the Father of Hangul
1. The Legacy of a Great Monarch
At the center of Gwanghwamun Square sits the Statue of King Sejong the Great,
a 6.2-meter bronze monument exuding both majesty and serenity.
His gentle expression and open gesture reflect his lifelong philosophy —
ruling through wisdom and compassion for his people.
King Sejong, the fourth monarch of the Joseon Dynasty,
is best known for creating Hangul, the Korean alphabet,
so that all citizens, not just scholars, could learn to read and write.
Today, Hangul is praised as one of the most scientific and efficient writing systems in the world.
Beyond language, King Sejong advanced astronomy, science, agriculture, and music,
laying the foundation for a thriving and cultured nation.
He remains the timeless symbol of leadership rooted in empathy and knowledge.
2. The Story of King Sejong Exhibition Hall
Beneath the statue lies the King Sejong Story Exhibition Hall,
an engaging cultural museum dedicated to his life and achievements.
Here, visitors can explore interactive displays,
including models of ancient scientific instruments such as the Cheugugi (rain gauge) and Jagyeokru (water clock).
The exhibits vividly portray how Sejong’s innovations improved daily life,
making it a must-visit educational site for families and travelers alike.
The Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin – The Spirit of Courage and Honor
1. Korea’s Defender of the Seas
Just south of King Sejong’s statue stands the towering Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin,
17 meters tall, sword in hand, facing south toward the Han River —
a guardian forever protecting the city.
Yi Sun-sin was a 16th-century naval commander who led Korea to victory
during the Imjin War (Japanese invasions, 1592–1598).
With only 12 ships, he defeated an enemy fleet of hundreds at the legendary Battle of Myeongnyang,
forever earning his place among the world’s greatest military leaders.
His immortal words,
“He who seeks to live shall die; he who seeks to die shall live,”
capture his unyielding spirit — a testament to courage and sacrifice
that continues to inspire generations of Koreans today.
2. The Story of Admiral Yi Exhibition Hall
Below the statue, the Admiral Yi Sun-sin Exhibition Hall presents his remarkable life through
artifacts, naval strategy displays, and interactive multimedia.
A life-size model of the Geobukseon (turtle ship)
offers visitors a close look at his revolutionary naval design.
Here, history comes alive — the waves of the past meeting the heartbeat of modern Seoul.
Gwanghwamun Square – A Place of Reflection and Celebration
1. The Fountain and Seasons of the Square
Between the two statues lies the Gwanghwamun Fountain,
a lively spot where children play in summer and couples stroll by at night.
Illuminated by colorful lights, the square transforms into a vibrant cultural stage
where performances, art exhibits, and seasonal events unfold throughout the year.
2. In Perfect Harmony with Gyeongbokgung Palace
Looking north from Admiral Yi’s statue,
you’ll see Gwanghwamun Gate rising proudly before the majestic backdrop of Bugaksan Mountain.
The straight line connecting the mountain, the palace, and the statues
forms Seoul’s most iconic view — a breathtaking blend of nature, history, and architecture.
It’s a view that captures Seoul’s essence: ancient dignity standing tall in a modern world.
Travel Information
- Location: Gwanghwamun Square, 175 Sejong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Subway: Line 5 Gwanghwamun Station (Exit 9) / Line 3 Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 6)
- Hours: Open 24 hours (Exhibition halls: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
- Admission: Free
- Nearby Attractions: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Sejong Center, Deoksugung Palace, Insadong Street
Where Pride Meets the Heart of Seoul
The statues of King Sejong the Great and Admiral Yi Sun-sin
represent more than historical figures —
they embody Korea’s wisdom, courage, and national pride.
King Sejong gifted the people the power of literacy;
Admiral Yi defended the nation’s freedom with unwavering resolve.
Together, they stand at Gwanghwamun as pillars of Korean identity,
reminding every passerby that greatness is built on service and strength.
When you stand before them, you don’t just see two statues —
you stand face to face with the spirit of a nation.
Gwanghwamun Square is where Korea’s past breathes into its present.
Stand before its two heroes,
and you’ll feel the pride and spirit that continue to shape the nation’s story.