The buildings have been restored many times since they were raised to the ground by Japanese invasions in the 16th century and again in 1910. There appears to be no love lost between Korea and Japan. We found many similarities between these two great countries, but also many differences. To explain further would require a post of its own, so why not visit both and discover for yourself instead.
The entrance fee is 3000 KRW (US$2.25) and is a real bargain as you also get free entrance to the museums too. It is closed on Tuesdays, but the other main palaces close on Mondays, so you can always find a palace to visit whatever day you visit Seoul.