Seolleung Station

Seolleung Station and Seonjeongneung at a glance

Seolleung Station is a subway interchange in Seoul’s Gangnam district, served by Seoul Subway Line 2 and the Suin–Bundang Line (also called the Bundang Line). It is a gateway to the Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a peaceful, wooded setting amid the city. The tombs are about a five-minute walk from the station; use Exit 8 (Seoul Danurim; visitseoul.net).

The Seonjeongneung complex comprises Seolleung and Jeongneung. Seolleung is the burial site of King Seongjong and Queen Jeonghyeon; Jeongneung is the tomb of their son, King Jungjong. The site offers a view of Joseon royal funerary architecture, Confucian traditions and the relationship between the tombs and their natural surroundings.

History and cultural significance

The Joseon Dynasty lasted from 1392 to 1897. Its royal tombs reflect Confucian ideals and were designed according to pungsu-jiri, the Korean adaptation of feng shui, which emphasizes harmony between people, buildings and the landscape (seoul-in-korea.com).

Seolleung holds King Seongjong, the ninth Joseon king (r. 1469–1494), and his second wife, Queen Jeonghyeon. Seongjong is remembered for administrative reforms, consolidating Confucian statecraft and promoting scholarship. Jeongneung is the tomb of King Jungjong, the 11th king (r. 1506–1544). His reign involved political reform and upheaval, including the Literati Purges (teretoadescubrirelmundo.com).

Constructed in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, the tombs’ orientation, layout and surrounding forests follow geomantic principles intended to create harmony with the landscape. The complex is part of the 40 royal tombs of the Joseon Dynasty and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009 (UNESCO listing; UNESCO).

The site reflects Confucian values of filial piety and respect for ancestors. Ancestral rites, known as Jesa, are still performed here, maintaining a living tradition (Cultural Heritage Administration). The surrounding forests are ecological conservation areas that include Japanese alder forests and marshland (seoul-in-korea.com; visitseoul.net).

The site is sometimes compared to New York City’s Central Park as a green retreat within a modern district. For international visitors, its royal history may bring to mind Egypt’s Valley of the Kings or China’s Ming Tombs; one account also compares its preservation with that of the Pyramids of Giza and the Taj Mahal (seoul-in-korea.com).

What to see

Seolleung and Jeongneung

At Seolleung, the twin grassy mounds of King Seongjong and Queen Jeonghyeon sit on a gentle slope, with stone statues and ceremonial paths nearby. Jeongneung is the solitary mound of King Jungjong, set apart within the complex.

The tomb mounds are not open to visitors, helping preserve the site. From the accessible paths, visitors can view the surrounding structures and stonework.

Gates, shrine and stone figures

• Hongsalmun (red-spiked gate) Marks the sacred boundary between the secular and spiritual worlds.
• Jeongjagak (T-shaped shrine) Used for ancestral rites and central to the tomb complex.
• Stone figures Statues of civil and military officials, horses and sheep line the approaches, symbolizing protection, reverence and royal authority.
• Burial mounds The grass-covered mounds are surrounded by stone railings and blend into the landscape.

These features are examples of Joseon royal tomb architecture and its ceremonial symbolism (thesoulofseoul.net).

Seasonal scenery and events

Cherry blossoms and azaleas bloom in spring, while the site is known for vivid foliage in autumn. The wooded area around Jeongneung is particularly noted for its spring blossoms and fall colors.

Occasional cultural events include reenactments of royal rituals and traditional music performances, especially during major Korean holidays. Events related to the tombs or Gangnam district may also take place; local listings and Seoul Danurim provide updates.

Images and virtual tours

Visitors can explore virtual tours and online maps.

Practical visiting information

Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs

Location and access

• Address 1 Seolleung-ro 100-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
• Nearest subway Seolleung Station, Line 2 and Bundang Line. Exit 8 is about a five-minute walk from the main entrance (Seoul Metro Map).
• The site is in Gangnam, one of Seoul’s most modern districts, and offers a contrast between the city’s urban surroundings and the tombs’ wooded grounds.

Opening hours

Published schedules differ. The information provided lists the following:

• March–October: 6:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
• November–February: 6:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. in one listing; 6:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. in another; and 6:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m. in a further listing.
• Another listing gives typical visiting hours as 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
• One schedule says the site is closed on Mondays.
• Where specified, last admission is one hour before closing. Hours may vary on holidays.

Check the official site for current schedules and special closures.

Admission and parking

• One listing gives admission as ₩1,000 per adult, or 1,000 KRW as of 2025. Admission is free for children under 6 and seniors over 65.
• Group discounts and discounts for holders of the Discover Seoul Pass are listed (Discover Seoul Pass).
• Another listing advises checking the official site or onsite ticket booth for current prices.
• Parking is listed at 600 KRW per 10 minutes.
• For inquiries, call +82-2-565-3331.

Facilities and tours

Walking paths connect the tombs, shrines and pavilions. The grounds are mostly flat, though some areas near the mounds may be uneven. The entrance information center offers multilingual brochures and maps; signage is available in English, Korean, Chinese and Japanese. Restrooms and benches are located near the entrance and along the main paths. Restrooms and lockers are also listed among the site’s visitor amenities.

Free guided tours are offered in Korean and occasionally in English; other listings describe tours in multiple languages. Tours may be booked onsite or online, and schedules can be checked at the information center or on the official website. Audio guides can be rented at the entrance for a small fee. Informational panels at key points support self-guided visits.

Eating and drinking are not permitted within the tomb precincts.

Seolleung Station

Location and connections

The station’s address is also listed as 1, Seolleung-ro 100-gil, Samseong-dong. It is an interchange between Seoul Subway Line 2, the Green Line, and the Bundang or Suin–Bundang Line.

• Line 2 connects Yeoksam Station to the west and Samseong Station to the east.
• The Suin–Bundang Line connects Seonjeongneung Station to the north, with a transfer to Line 9, and Hanti Station to the south.
• Multiple bus lines and taxis are available nearby.
• From Incheon International Airport, subway routes typically involve transferring at Seoul Station or Gangnam Station (KoreaToDo).

Station operating hours

The station generally operates daily from approximately 5:30 a.m. until 12:00 a.m. (midnight). Some facilities, such as convenience stores and ticket offices, may have shorter hours.

Station layout and wayfinding

The station has a multi-level underground layout. Line 2 platforms are on the lower level, while Bundang Line platforms are on a separate level connected by escalators, elevators and stairs. Entrances and exits are numbered, with English signage. Signs are also listed in Korean, Chinese and Japanese.

Digital boards show real-time train schedules and service updates. Interactive digital maps show station layouts and nearby attractions. Wide corridors and multiple ticket gates serve passenger flows during peak hours. Subway Korea, KakaoMap, Naver Map, Citymapper and Transit are among the apps mentioned for navigation and accessibility information.

Fares and payment

• The base subway fare is listed as ₩1,250, with additional charges based on distance and transfers.
• Another listing gives single-use tickets as approximately 1,500 KRW for adults and 500 KRW for children.
• Single-journey tickets are available from automated machines with multilingual instructions; machines are listed as accepting cash and credit cards.
• T-money cards can be purchased and recharged at convenience stores, station kiosks or ticket machines. GS25, CU and 7-Eleven are specifically listed. T-money is accepted on Seoul public transport, including subways and buses, and card users are described as receiving discounted fares and smoother transfers.
• An initial top-up of 10,000 KRW is recommended in one listing. Tap the card when entering and exiting stations.
• A Korea Rail Pass is mentioned for unlimited rides on KORAIL trains when travelling beyond Seoul.

Station facilities and accessibility

Station facilities listed include elevators, escalators, ramps, wheelchair lifts, tactile paving and accessible restrooms. The restrooms are described as spacious, with emergency bells, inclined mirrors and auxiliary infant chairs, and as suitable for electric wheelchairs. Wheelchair and stroller rentals are listed as available near the station entrance. Some stone-covered internal passages and uneven flooring may cause inconvenience.

Other listed facilities include seating and rest areas, convenience stores and kiosks selling snacks, beverages, travel essentials and SIM cards, cafes, bicycle racks, breastfeeding rooms, coin-operated lockers, free Wi-Fi and mobile-device charging points. Free Wi-Fi is also listed as available on trains. The station is described as ranking fourth in nationwide passenger traffic.

Descriptions of luggage storage differ: one lists coin-operated lockers at the station, while another says the station lacks dedicated luggage storage and recommends lockers at Seoul Station or Gangnam Station for larger luggage. Nearby hotels and coworking spaces may offer short-term options.

CCTV, security personnel, regular patrols, emergency call buttons and marked evacuation routes are listed as safety measures. Station staff at information desks and ticket gates can provide assistance. Lost and found is located near the main ticket gates or at station offices. For emergencies, dial 1330 for the Korea Travel Hotline, which offers multilingual assistance.

Visitor tips and etiquette

• Early morning or late afternoon is recommended for fewer crowds, cooler temperatures and softer light.
• Weekday peak hours are listed as 7:00–9:00 a.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m. Another listing gives 7:30–9:00 a.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m. as times to avoid.
• Check which station exit best suits your destination. For luggage, use elevators where available; check Naver Map for exit details (HeyRoseanne).
• At the station, queue at platform markings and let passengers exit before boarding. Priority seating is reserved for elderly, pregnant or disabled passengers. Keep noise low; phone calls and loud conversations are discouraged.
• Eating and drinking are prohibited on trains as well as within the tomb precincts.
• Dress modestly and keep a quiet demeanor near the tombs and shrines.
• Photography is permitted in most outdoor areas, but not inside the Jeongjagak shrine or near restricted areas. Flash and tripods may be restricted, and visitors should not photograph ceremonies.
• Stay on marked paths and do not walk on burial mounds or into restricted areas.
• The grounds are mostly outdoors with limited shelter; bring an umbrella or sun protection.
• Consider a guided walking tour for historical context. Renting a hanbok is also mentioned as an option for photographs.
• Respect the site as both a historical monument and a place of continuing cultural memory.

Nearby places and further information

Nearby attractions include Bongeunsa Temple, COEX Mall, Apgujeong Rodeo Street, Samsung d’light and Seolleung Park. COEX Mall, Bongeunsa Temple and Samsung d’light are described as a short subway ride away. The Gangnam business and shopping districts have cafes, restaurants and retail shops; nearby dining options range from traditional Korean eateries to international chains (Seoul Restaurant Guide).

Teheran-ro is known as Seoul’s “Silicon Valley.” The area also has coworking spaces, including WeWork Seolleung.

For more Seoul historical sites, see Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon Secret Garden and Bukchon Hanok Village. For more on Korean culture, see Confucian traditions in Korea.

The guide material also recommends the Audiala app for guided audio tours, real-time transit updates and travel tips. Its social channels are Audiala Travel, @audiala_travel and @Audiala.

Further information is available from Seoul Danurim, KoreaToDo, The Soul of Seoul and KR Web Magazine.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What are the visiting hours for Seonjeongneung?
Published schedules differ: March–October is listed as 6:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; November–February is variously listed as 6:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., 6:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. or 6:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Another listing gives typical hours of 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. One schedule says the site is closed on Mondays. Last admission is one hour before closing where specified, and hours may vary on holidays.

How much are tickets to the royal tombs?
Admission is listed as ₩1,000 per adult, or 1,000 KRW as of 2025. Children under 6 and seniors over 65 are listed as free; group and Discover Seoul Pass discounts are also listed. Check the official site or ticket booth for current prices.

How do I get to the tombs?
Take Line 2 or the Suin–Bundang Line to Seolleung Station, use Exit 8 and walk about five minutes.

Are guided tours available?
Yes. Free tours are listed in Korean and occasionally English; other listings describe tours in multiple languages. Audio guides are available to rent for a small fee.

Is the site wheelchair accessible?
The main paths are paved and accessible, although some areas near the mounds may be uneven. The station has elevators, ramps, tactile paving and accessible restrooms.

Is photography allowed?
Photography is permitted in most outdoor areas, but not inside the Jeongjagak shrine or near restricted areas. Flash and tripods may be restricted, and photography during ceremonies should be avoided.

What are Seolleung Station’s operating hours?
The station generally operates from approximately 5:30 a.m. until midnight. Some facilities may have shorter hours.

How can I pay for subway rides?
T-money cards are accepted and recommended. Single-use tickets are also available from station machines.

Are there special events?
Occasional royal ritual reenactments, traditional music performances and other cultural events are listed. Check local listings or Seoul Danurim for updates.