Blue House (Cheongwadae) (Seoul) FAQs In 2026 - 2027

The Blue House, known in Korean as Cheongwadae, is the executive office and official residence of the President of South Korea. Located in the capital city of Seoul, it is a prominent building characterized by its unique blue tiled roof. It serves both as the workplace for the president and staff, as well as a venue for state ceremonies and meetings with foreign dignitaries.

Yes, tourists were able to visit the Blue House by applying for a tour on the official website, subject to security screening and availability. However, visitors should check the latest information, as policies regarding tours can change due to various circumstances such as changes in the political climate, national security concerns, or public health considerations.

Advance booking was previously required to join a tour of the Blue House. Tourists needed to apply for a tour several weeks ahead of their intended visit date, usually through the official Cheongwadae website or a registered tour service. Nonetheless, it's important to verify current requirements due to potential changes in visitation policies.

Typically, there was no fee to tour the Blue House; the tours were provided free of charge. This policy could change, so it’s advised to check the most up-to-date information before planning a visit.

Tourists visiting the Blue House could expect to see the main office building (Chunchugwan Press Hall), the official residence, the guest house (Yeongbingwan), the expansive gardens, and the beautifully adorned traditional Korean architecture. The serene surroundings and the view of the Bugaksan Mountain in the backdrop are also quite noteworthy.

The opening hours for the Blue House tours were subject to change, often with guided tours available on certain days of the week excluding public holidays. It is essential to check the official website or contact the administration directly for the most current information regarding tour times and availability.

Visitors to the Blue House were typically required to follow certain security regulations, such as presenting a valid ID for verification, not bringing prohibited items, and staying within the guided tour group. Photography may be restricted in certain areas. Tourists should be aware of and adhere to the latest guidelines provided during the application process or by tour guides.

A typical guided tour of the Blue House could last from one to two hours, encompassing various points of interest around the premises. However, visitors should check for the latest information regarding tour durations as they can vary.

Most tours were historically offered in Korean, with some tours providing English-language options or audio guides. It is recommended to inquire about current language services when booking the tour.

Photography may be permitted in designated areas during the tour of the Blue House, but there may be restrictions in certain sections for security reasons. Tour guides typically inform visitors of the photography policy at the beginning of the tour.