Introduction
Cheong Wa Dae, also known as the Blue House, served as the official residence and office of South Korea’s presidents from August 15, 1948, until May 9, 2022. A total of 12 presidents lived and worked here, from the first president, Syngman Lee, to the 19th president, Moon Jae-in.
On May 10, 2022, following the inauguration of President Yoon Suk-yeol, the presidential office was relocated to Yongsan, and Cheong Wa Dae was opened to the public for the first time.
Since its opening, visitors can now explore this historic site. This guide will provide details on how to reserve tickets, admission fees, parking options, and useful tips for a smooth visit. Since Cheong Wa Dae is not currently being used as a presidential office, this may be a rare opportunity to visit. Don’t miss your chance to experience this historic landmark firsthand!
How to Reserve Tickets
There are two ways to get tickets: on-site reservations and online reservations.
On-site Reservation (Limited Eligibility)
Only the following groups can apply for on-site tickets:
- Seniors (65+)
- Individuals with disabilities (and one accompanying person)
- National veterans
- Foreign visitors
📌 Required Documents: Valid ID card, driver’s license, or any official proof of eligibility
Online Reservation (Required for General Visitors)
All general visitors must reserve their tickets online in advance.
👉 Click here to book your ticket
Admission Fee
✅ Free Admission (No ticket cost)
Opening Hours
- March – November: 09:00 – 18:00 (Last entry: 17:00)
- December – February: 09:00 – 17:30 (Last entry: 16:30)
- Closed on Tuesdays
- (If Tuesday is a public holiday, Cheong Wa Dae will remain open and close the following day instead.)
Public Transportation
By Bus:
- Get off at Hyoja-dong Bus Stop (8 min walk)
- Routes: 1020, 1711, 7016, 7018, 7022, 7212
- Get off at Cheong Wa Dae Bus Stop or Chunchumun Bus Stop (4 min walk)
- Route: 01A
By Subway:
- Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3) → Exit 4 (15 min walk)
- Anguk Station (Line 3) → Exit 1 (20 min walk)
By Shuttle Bus:
- Operating Days: Only on Cheong Wa Dae viewing days
- Operating Hours: 09:00 – 18:00 (Every 30 minutes)
- Shuttle Bus Stop Locations: (Check the provided map on the official website.)
Parking Options
Parking in the Cheong Wa Dae area is limited, so public transportation is highly recommended. However, if you must drive, here are the available parking options:
Cheong Wa Dae Sarangchae Parking Lot
📍 Located outside Cheong Wa Dae, near the main entrance
- Pros: Closest to the main entrance, making it convenient to visit Cheong Wa Dae Sarangchae (a visitor center with a café, exhibition hall, and gift shop) before leaving.
- Cons: Small parking capacity. Not recommended on weekends or holidays due to congestion.
Chunchumun Public Parking Lot
📍 Located on the right side outside Cheong Wa Dae
- Pros: More parking spaces than Sarangchae.
- Cons: Hard to find a spot on weekends. Farther from the main entrance, making it slightly inconvenient.
National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art Parking Lot
📍 Located near Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Pros: More parking spaces available.
- Cons: 10+ minute walk to Cheong Wa Dae.
Must-See Attractions
Cheong Wa Dae consists of several key buildings, each with historical significance:
- Main Office Building: The official presidential office where key decisions were made.
- Presidential Residence: Where former presidents and their families lived.
- Chimryugak: A traditional Korean house, originally located at the site of the Presidential Residence.
- Sangchunjae: A traditional hanok-style reception hall for foreign and domestic guests.
- Yeongbingwan: A grand hall used for diplomatic events and large meetings.
Recommended Tour Route
- Main Office Building → Presidential Residence → Chimryugak → Sangchunjae → Nokjiwon Garden → Sojeongwon → Yeongbingwan → Cheong Wa Dae Sarangchae (Final Stop)
- Only three buildings allow indoor entry: Main Office, Yeongbingwan, and Sarangchae.
- It’s best to enter through the Main Entrance rather than Chunchumun to minimize extra walking.
Important Rules & Guidelines
- Indoor entry closes at 5:30 PM, but Yeongbingwan may close earlier at 5:00 PM.
- No pets allowed (Even if carried in cages or strollers).
- No electric mobility devices (electric wheelchairs, scooters, etc.).
- Cheong Wa Dae Sarangchae is located outside Cheong Wa Dae and is best visited at the end of your tour.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Cheong Wa Dae is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step inside one of the most historically significant places in South Korea. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a traveler, or just curious about South Korean politics, this tour offers a unique experience beyond what you see in the media.
Since access to Cheong Wa Dae might change in the future, don’t miss your chance to visit! Book your tickets now and explore this incredible landmark. 🇰🇷✨
