Gyeonggijeon Shrine

Shrine dedicated to Yi Seong-gye, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty. Not only the shrine itself but also the surrounding buildings—where the officials who conducted ancestral rites lived and carried out administrative duties—have been carefully restored. The site offers a clear view of architectural styles characteristic of the Joseon period. Compared with Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, it attracts far fewer visitors, allowing you to enjoy the historic atmosphere in a quieter and more contemplative setting. The level of historical research and accuracy in the restoration is notably high. It is a place well worth visiting when you are in Jeonju.

A historical shrine rich in history. Many dramas filmed here. I recommend coming here during the tour times. They have tours in different languages- if you want English, be at the entrance (towards the left side) after paying for entry and entering at 11 am or 2 pm. Tours start at 11 am and 2 pm. There is also a small royal portrait museum in the back and we enjoyed our time here. Spent more than 2 hours here which included the tour. I highly recommend the tour. Entrance is 3000 won per adult. If coming in winter time, outside the square there are seats in the front and all around with white on the benches. They are heated seats!!!!!! Also in front of this main entrance is the meeting point for the 11 am and 3 pm free Jeonju historical village tour which was lovely as well. If you are confused, go to the tourist information center to the left of the square. That tourist information center has bathrooms, a refillable water purification machine, and Lockers! You can lock heavy items there for free!

Our visit here was peaceful and relaxed. It turned out to be a far more serene setting than expected and our visit was further enhanced by a chance opportunity to witness part of an annual eagle worship ceremony held only once a year.

Visited early November. The autumn colours here were amazing esp the vibrant yellow ginkgo trees. This required a small entrance fee, but trust me, worth every penny. The surrounding worth walking both day and night, great place to stroll around and take in the hanok vibes.

Gyeonggijeon Shrine enshrines the portrait of Lee Seong-gye. The complex as visitors see it today took shape after the founding of the Joseon Dynasty, when Gyeonggijeon Shrine was expanded upon the original site of Jogyeongmyo Shrine. What I find even more compelling, however, lies behind this complex: a section closed off to the public, its gates permanently locked. According to historical records, it is this secluded area that constitutes the true ancestral shrine of the Jeonju Lee clan. Within it were enshrined the spirit tablets of the clan’s founding ancestor, who held the high-ranking post of Sagun (Minister of Works) under the Silla Dynasty, as well as that of the founding matriarch from the Gyeongju Kim clan.

The Shrine is a well-preserved historical site. It is surrounded by traditional architecture, beautiful gardens, and peaceful walking paths. The site is well-maintained and provides good photo opportunities. Moreover, the museum in the complex is also quite interesting and has different activities specially for kids.

It was quite nice, but I expected more. The entrance fee was 3,000 won. Compared to other attractions, that's quite a lot for what it offers. We tried three Western credit cards, but none were accepted. That's a bit low for such a touristy place. June 2025

Nice. Not too many people. The buildings look like many other palaces, can't really enter any building, just like any other palace, but this place doesn't have many chambers to enter anyway. 3k won entry ticket. Many trees. Clean toilets. Interesting museum at the back with no extra cost. Spare 1 hour here.