The Places
Samsung Medical Center
Samsung Medical Center (SMC) is in Seoul’s Gangnam district. Established in 1994 as a flagship hospital of the Samsung Group, it is known for advanced healthcare, specialized medicine, and patient-focused services. It has Asia’s largest comprehensive cancer center and Korea’s first Department of Critical Care Medicine. Its “4-less” digital transformation aims to minimize paper, charts, film, and wait times. The International Healthcare Center (IHC) offers multilingual support and concierge services for international patients.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the grandest of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces and a landmark of Korea’s royal heritage, architecture, and culture.
History
Samsung Medical Center
SMC opened in November 1994 with a “patient-centered hospital” model. In 1996, it was designated a medical evacuation hospital for the U.S. White House.
During the 2000s, the center expanded its specialties and technology. Asia’s largest comprehensive cancer center opened in 2008, and SMC introduced robotic surgery and gamma knife therapy. It later established Korea’s first Department of Critical Care Medicine and launched the Proton Therapy Center.
SMC’s “4-less” initiative supported the digitization of healthcare, reducing paperwork and wait times while improving patient navigation. In 2024, SMC became the first hospital globally to receive HIMSS Quadruple Stage 7 validation for digital health.
SMC collaborates with Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine and operates advanced research centers in oncology and genomics. With a staff of over 7,400, it is among Korea’s largest medical teams and is consistently ranked among Asia’s top hospitals.
Patient-focused innovations include the “Connect & Thru” digital navigation system, multilingual interpretation, and IHC concierge services for foreign patients. SMC also played an essential role during the 2015 MERS outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing enhanced infection control and expanding telehealth services.
The center invests in AI diagnostics, robotic surgery, and personalized medicine, and is developing the Samsung International Medical Center to extend its global reach.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung served as the main royal residence and seat of government during the Joseon Dynasty. It was severely damaged during Japanese invasions and the occupation, and has since been meticulously restored.
What to See
At Samsung Medical Center
SMC offers virtual tours and detailed resources on its Samsung Medical Center official website. High-resolution images and detailed virtual walkthroughs can help visitors familiarize themselves with the hospital environment before arrival.
At Gyeongbokgung Palace
The palace complex includes Geunjeongjeon (Throne Hall), Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, as well as the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum.
The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony is held twice daily, at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, weather permitting. Seasonal cultural programs feature traditional music and dance.
The grand main gate welcomes visitors into Korea’s royal legacy.
Experience the vibrant Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Practical Visiting Information
Samsung Medical Center
SMC’s general visiting hours are 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Hours may vary by department, particularly for inpatient wards and specialized units, so verify department-specific hours before visiting.
No admission ticket is needed to enter SMC. Outpatient services and diagnostic procedures require an appointment. Appointments can be made through the official website, by phone, or through international patient services. The online portal and mobile app offer digital check-in, appointment reminders, and access to medical records. Walk-in consultations are limited; advance booking is strongly recommended to minimize wait times and ensure availability.
International patients can contact the IHC directly by email or phone for personalized assistance, interpreter services, and guidance on required documentation. The IHC provides interpretation in English, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, Mongolian, and more, as well as travel support.
The campus has ramps, elevators, designated parking, and wheelchair rentals. Assistance can be arranged through patient services.
SMC is accessible by public transportation:
- Subway Irwon Station on Line 3 is within walking distance.
- Bus and taxi Multiple city buses and taxis serve the area.
- From the airport Limousine buses connect Incheon International Airport to Gangnam.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Visiting hours are:
- March–October 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; last admission at 5:00 PM.
- November–February 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; last admission at 4:00 PM.
- Closed Tuesdays and major holidays, including Korean New Year and Chuseok.
Admission fees are:
- Adults 3,000 KRW (~$2.50 USD).
- Youth (7–18), seniors (65+), and groups (20+) 1,500 KRW.
- Free admission Children under 6, Seoul citizens on the last Wednesday of each month, and select cultural card holders.
- Combined tickets Available for entry to the National Palace Museum and National Folk Museum.
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via the Cultural Heritage Administration website.
The palace is accessible by subway and bus:
- Subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5.
- Bus Routes 109, 171, and 272, among others.
The grounds are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms. Assistance is available upon request.
Tips
At Gyeongbokgung, spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are noted for optimal weather and scenery. Guided tours are available in several languages and are highly recommended. Comfortable shoes and modest attire are suggested. Wearing hanbok enhances the experience and grants free admission.
Photography is permitted throughout the grounds, but drones are prohibited. Flash or tripods are not permitted in certain areas. Eating is not permitted inside the palace; cafes and restaurants are nearby.
Nearby Places
SMC’s Gangnam location offers access to accommodations ranging from luxury hotels, including the InterContinental Seoul COEX and Shilla Stay, to budget guesthouses. Nearby leisure options include COEX Mall, Bongeunsa Temple, and various restaurants and cafes.
Near Gyeongbokgung are Bukchon Hanok Village, known for traditional Korean houses and cultural experiences; Insadong, known for antiques, tea houses, and art galleries; and Cheonggyecheon Stream, a scenic place for a walk.
Other leading medical centers in Seoul include Asan Medical Center and Seoul National University Hospital, which offer a range of complementary healthcare services.
Further Information
For SMC details and patient resources, visit the Samsung Medical Center official website. The Samsung Medical Center mobile app provides appointment management and up-to-date information. Visitors can also follow SMC’s official social media channels. For virtual tours, see the official website.
For palace visitor information, see the Official Gyeongbokgung Palace Website or the Cultural Heritage Administration.
Samsung Medical Center: Visiting Hours, Patient Services, and Seoul's Premier Medical Hub, 2025, Samsung Medical Center (https://www.samsunghospital.com)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the visiting hours at Samsung Medical Center?
A: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but check department-specific hours before visiting.
Q: How can I make an appointment at SMC?
A: Book online, by phone, or through the International Healthcare Center for international patients.
Q: Is Samsung Medical Center wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. Facilities include ramps, elevators, and assistance services.
Q: Does SMC provide language support for international patients?
A: Yes. The IHC offers interpretation in English, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, Mongolian, and more.
Q: Are there guided tours or public events at SMC?
A: While patient care is the focus, occasional medical seminars and public health events are held. Check the website for current offerings.
Q: Are there special events at Gyeongbokgung Palace?
A: Yes, including the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony and periodic cultural performances.
Q: Is the palace accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes. The facility has ramps and accessible restrooms.
Q: Can I buy palace tickets online?
A: Yes, via the official Cultural Heritage Administration website.
Q: Are food and drinks allowed in the palace?
A: Eating is not permitted inside; cafes and restaurants are nearby.
Q: Is photography allowed at Gyeongbokgung Palace?
A: Yes, except for flash or tripods in certain areas.
