Seoul Palaces Offer Free Entry for 2026 Lunar New Year

Visitors can explore historic royal sites like Gyeongbokgung and Jongmyo Shrine without admission fees from February 14-18.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Seoul's four royal palaces and the Jongmyo Shrine will provide free admission to all visitors from February 14th through February 18th to celebrate Seollal, the Lunar New Year, according to an announcement from the Cultural Heritage Administration.

Why it matters

This is a rare opportunity for both locals and tourists to freely access some of Seoul's most iconic historic sites during the important Lunar New Year holiday period. The free entry helps promote cultural heritage and tourism in the city.

The details

Gyeongbokgung Palace will distribute 'Sehwa' - New Year's blessing paintings - at Heungnyemun Square. Changdeokgung Palace, known for its natural landscape integration, will also be freely accessible, though the Secret Garden remains excluded. Deoksugung Palace, blending traditional and modern styles, is conveniently located near City Hall Station. Changgyeonggung Palace, celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere, invites visitors to explore Chundangji Pond. Jongmyo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, typically requires timed reservations but will be open without prior booking during this period.

  • The free admission period runs from February 14th through February 18th, 2026.
  • Lunar New Year's Day on February 14th may be particularly crowded, so the Cultural Heritage Administration recommends arriving early.

The players

Cultural Heritage Administration

The government agency responsible for managing and preserving South Korea's cultural heritage sites, including the royal palaces and Jongmyo Shrine in Seoul.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

The main palace of the Joseon Dynasty and one of the four royal palaces in Seoul that will offer free admission during Lunar New Year.

Changdeokgung Palace

A royal palace known for its integration of architecture and natural landscape, also offering free entry for the holiday.

Deoksugung Palace

A palace that blends traditional and modern architectural styles, providing a convenient option for visitors near City Hall Station.

Changgyeonggung Palace

A palace celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore Chundangji Pond during the free admission period.

Jongmyo Shrine

A Confucian royal ancestral shrine and UNESCO World Heritage site that will exceptionally allow entry without prior reservation during Lunar New Year.

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What’s next

The Cultural Heritage Administration advises that Lunar New Year's Day on February 14th may be particularly crowded, so they recommend arriving early to avoid congestion.

The takeaway

The free admission to Seoul's royal palaces and Jongmyo Shrine during the Lunar New Year holiday provides an excellent chance for visitors to explore the city's rich cultural heritage without cost barriers, helping to promote tourism and appreciation for these historic sites.