Deoksugung Palace, Seoul

Deoksugung Palace is the smallest of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces, but its compact grounds contain an unusual mix of traditional Korean and Western architecture. The site became a royal residence after Seoul’s main palaces were destroyed during the Japanese invasion of 1592. Much of Deoksugung was later demolished or altered during Japanese colonial rule, leaving the palace only a fraction of its former size.

Begin your exploration outside Daehanmun Gate, which is the main entrance facing the boulevard beside Seoul City Hall. This is also where the colorful Royal Palace Guard Changing Ceremony takes place. After entering, follow the main path through Junghwamun Gate into the broad courtyard of Junghwajeon Hall, the palace’s throne hall. Look for the rows of stone markers in front; these indicated where court officials stood according to rank during royal ceremonies.

From here, head toward the cluster of traditional wooden buildings behind the throne hall. Jeukjodang Hall, connected to neighboring Junmyeongdang, is especially significant because King Gwanghaegun and King Injo both ascended the throne here back in the 1600s.

Continue toward the rear of the palace to Hamnyeongjeon Hall, Emperor Gojong’s sleeping residence after he returned here in 1897. Nearby, see Jeonggwanheon Pavilion, easily spotted by its Western-style columns and veranda combined with Korean decorative motifs. Emperor Gojong used this area for receptions and relaxation.

Next, walk toward the western side of the grounds, where the large white Seokjojeon Hall is impossible to miss. Completed in 1910, its tall classical columns and triangular pediment make it look more like a European palace than a traditional Korean residence. Today, it houses the Daehan Empire History Museum. In front, the Western-style garden and fountain provide one of the palace’s best photo opportunities.

Deoksugung is particularly atmospheric in the evening, when the illuminated buildings can be enjoyed during a moonlit stroll. Afterward, follow the famous Deoksugung Stonewall Walkway along the palace walls.

Tip:
Visitors wearing traditional hanbok can enter the palace free of charge. For an elevated view, visit the nearby Jeong-dong Observatory in the Seoul City Hall Seosomun Building, where the 13th-floor viewpoint overlooks the palace grounds and downtown skyline.