The changing of the guard ceremony is an event that recreates the ritual of the 'Sumungun (gatekeepers)' who carried out tasks such as opening and closing gates, security, and patrols in the royal palace during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). It takes place in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace's Gwanghwamun gate every day except Tuesdays.

The gatekeeper was responsible for guarding the gates of the capital and palace, such as Kyongbok Palace Gate (East Gate) and Namdaemun Gate (South Gate). The gatekeeper followed a set procedure to open and close Kyongbok Palace Gate, and was in charge of the security of the king and royal family, who were at the center of the nation. When the drum called 'Choom' (initial strict: a type of large drum to announce the start of the ceremony) indicating the start of the changing ceremony of the palace gatekeepers is sounded, the replacement gatekeeper troops depart and arrive at Kyongbok Palace Gate. Next, when 'Chunom' (middle strict) is sounded, the gatekeeper troops move outside of Kyongbok Palace Gate. They exchange military codes (ciphers) to confirm the identities of the gatekeeper to be replaced and their successor. Then, under the command of the gatekeeper, they take their positions, and when 'Samom' (third strict) is sounded, they exchange places and exit.Regular Performance

• Changing of the Guard Ceremony: 10:00 / 14:00 (twice a day for 20 minutes each)
• Guarding of Gwanghwamun Gate (Guard) Ceremony: 11:00 / 13:00 (twice a day for 10 minutes each)
• Experience Trying on the Guard's Uniform: Before and after the Changing of the Guard Ceremony and the Gwanghwamun Gate Guarding Ceremony
• Guard Military Public Training: 9:35 / 13:35 (twice a day for 15 minutes each)*During winter (December to February) / summer (July and August): If the temperature is below 10 degrees or above 30 degrees, the Gwanghwamun Gate Guarding Ceremony will be shortened (the Changing of the Guard Ceremony will proceed as usual).*In case of rain or snow, only the Guarding Ceremony of Hunjeongmun Gate will be held