The "Sungnyemun Gate Guard Ceremony" is a protective ritual of the Seoul Fortress held at Namdaemun, known as "Sungnyemun." It recreates the scene of Joseon Dynasty soldiers guarding the palace.

"Guard duty" was one of the important military rituals during the Joseon Dynasty, which involved protecting the fortress walls. During the Joseon Dynasty, the four gates of Seoul were closed from 10 PM to 4 AM every night to maintain public order and protect the fortress. At 10 PM, a bell would be rung 28 times to close the gates, and at 4 AM, the bell would be rung 33 times to open them again. Guards would patrol the fortress during the prohibited hours.

After the Sungnyemun fire in February 2008, the "Sungnyemun Guard Ceremony" was temporarily suspended but was resumed on June 23, 2016, after eight years. It is now held twice daily, except on Mondays, from 11:20 AM to 11:40 AM and from 1:40 PM to 2:00 PM, and is free to watch.

*Please note that the ceremony may be canceled without notice due to bad weather or other circumstances.
*After the performance, you can take photos with the gate guards dressed in traditional attire.