Deoksugung Palace, or “Palace of Virtuous Longevity,” is one of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. However, unlike other traditional palaces in Seoul, Deoksugung is known for its combination of Korean and European influences, making it a truly unique site to explore.
🔹 Why is Deoksugung Palace Special?
✅ Only Korean palace with Western-style buildings 🏛️
✅ Located in the city center, easy to access 🚇
✅ Famous for its stone-wall road, perfect for a romantic walk 🌳
✅ Hosts the traditional Royal Guard Changing Ceremony 🎭
✅ Stunning night illuminations make it a must-visit spot 🌙
📖 A Brief History of Deoksugung Palace
Deoksugung was initially a royal residence for King Seonjo (Joseon Dynasty) in the late 16th century. It later became the official palace of King Gojong, the first emperor of the Korean Empire (Daehan Empire, 1897-1910).
During his reign, King Gojong introduced Western-style architecture, which still stands today. After Korea’s annexation by Japan in 1910, Deoksugung lost its status as a royal palace, and many of its original buildings were destroyed. However, the palace remains an important historical landmark, symbolizing Korea’s modernization efforts.
📌 Historical Timeline of Deoksugung Palace
| Period | Event |
|---|---|
| 1592 | Used as a temporary royal residence after the Japanese invasion |
| 1897 | King Gojong declares the Korean Empire and uses Deoksugung as the main palace |
| 1900s | Western-style buildings, such as Seokjojeon Hall, are constructed |
| 1910 | Korea is annexed by Japan, and the palace loses its royal status |
| Present | Deoksugung is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO Tentative Site |
🏛️ Must-See Buildings in Deoksugung Palace
When visiting Deoksugung Palace, don’t miss these iconic buildings and attractions inside the palace grounds:
1. Junghwajeon Hall (중화전) – The Royal Throne Hall
- The main hall of Deoksugung, where important royal ceremonies were held.
- Features a grand throne and stunning golden decorations.
📸 Best Photo Spot: Take a picture in front of the entrance, with the majestic palace doors in the background!
2. Seokjojeon Hall (석조전) – A Western-Style Royal Residence
- Built in 1910, inspired by European Neoclassical architecture.
- Once used as a residence for King Gojong, now houses a museum about the Korean Empire.
📌 Inside Seokjojeon Hall:
- European-style dining halls, offices, and bedrooms.
- Artifacts and furniture from the Korean Empire period.
- Guided tours available in English and Korean.
3. Jeonggwanheon Pavilion (정관헌) – Where King Gojong Enjoyed Coffee ☕
- The first-ever royal coffee house in Korea!
- Built for King Gojong to relax and drink coffee, a luxury at the time.
📌 Fun Fact: Coffee culture in Korea started with King Gojong, who enjoyed imported coffee in this very pavilion.
4. Deoksugung Stone Wall Road (덕수궁 돌담길) – The Most Romantic Walkway in Seoul 💕
- A beautiful tree-lined road wrapping around Deoksugung.
- Especially stunning in autumn, with golden leaves covering the path.
- A popular filming location for K-dramas and movies!
📌 Local Tip:
There is a superstition that couples who walk here will break up—but don’t worry, many couples still enjoy the romantic scenery together!
🎟️ Deoksugung Palace Entry Fees & Operating Hours
Here’s all you need to know about ticket prices and opening hours:
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | $1 (₩1,000) |
| Children (under 18) | Free |
| Royal Guard Ceremony Tour | Free |
📌 Opening Hours:
- 09:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last admission at 8:30 PM)
- Closed on Mondays
🚇 How to Get to Deoksugung Palace?
Deoksugung is one of the most easily accessible palaces in Seoul, as it’s located right next to Seoul City Hall.
📍 By Subway
- Line 1 & Line 2 → Get off at City Hall Station (Exit 2, 3) → Walk 1 minute
🚖 By Taxi
- Tell the driver: “덕수궁 가주세요” (Deoksugung please!)
- From Myeongdong: 5mins ($5 fare)
- From Gangnam: 20mins ($12 fare)
🎭 Experience the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony
One of the most exciting things to see at Deoksugung is the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, a traditional performance reenacting the Joseon-era security ritual.
📌 Schedule:
- Every day at 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 3:30 PM (except Mondays)
- Held right at the main entrance of Deoksugung
📸 Best Spot to Watch: Stand near the palace gate to get great photos of the guards in colorful uniforms!
🌟 Local Tips for Visiting Deoksugung Palace
✅ Visit at night – The palace lights up beautifully after sunset.
✅ Join a guided tour – English tours are available, giving deeper historical insights.
✅ Pair with a visit to Seoul Museum of Art – Located right next to Deoksugung.
✅ Explore nearby cafés – The Jeongdong area has some of the best traditional and modern cafés.
📅 When is the Best Time to Visit Deoksugung?
Deoksugung Palace has a different charm in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
Choose the best time for your visit depending on the atmosphere you want!
🌅 Morning – If You Prefer a Quiet Palace Walk
- Best time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Enjoy a peaceful walk without large crowds
- Perfect for photography as fewer people are around
📌 Recommended Course:
1️⃣ Enter Deoksugung and explore Jeonggwanheon Pavilion
2️⃣ Visit the Korean Empire History Hall inside Seokjojeon
3️⃣ Watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony (11:00 AM)
🌇 Afternoon – If You Want to See the Changing of the Guard & Art Galleries
- Best time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Perfect for those who want to see the traditional guard ceremony
- A great time to take a leisurely walk along Deoksugung Stone Wall Road
📌 Recommended Course:
1️⃣ Explore Junghwajeon Hall & Seokjojeon
2️⃣ Watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at 2:00 PM
3️⃣ Walk along Deoksugung Stone Wall Road and visit Seoul Museum of Art
🌙 Evening – If You Love Romantic Night Views
- Best time: After 7:00 PM
- Deoksugung is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere
- The soft lighting gives the palace a peaceful and elegant vibe
📌 Recommended Course:
1️⃣ Enjoy a cup of tea at a Jeongdong area café before visiting
2️⃣ Walk around the palace and enjoy the night scenery
3️⃣ Visit Seoul Plaza for a breathtaking view of city lights
🏰 Unique Experiences at Deoksugung Palace
Beyond sightseeing, there are special experiences at Deoksugung that you shouldn’t miss!
🎭 The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony – A Must-See Traditional Event
One of the most exciting events at Deoksugung is the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, a traditional military performance.
📌 Schedule
| Session | Time |
|---|---|
| 1st | 11:00 AM |
| 2nd | 2:00 PM |
| 3rd | 3:30 PM |
🔹 Location: In front of Deoksugung’s main gate
🔹 Entrance Fee: Free
Local Tip: Arrive 10-15 minutes early to get a good spot for photos!
🏛️ Seokjojeon Korean Empire History Hall – A Glimpse into Korea’s Modern History
Seokjojeon Hall is the most European-style building in Deoksugung. It now serves as a museum showcasing the Korean Empire’s history and royal lifestyle.
📌 How to Visit Seokjojeon?
- Reservations required for guided tours
- English tours available
- Tour tickets can be booked online through the Deoksugung website
☕ Jeonggwanheon Pavilion – Korea’s First Royal Coffee House
Jeonggwanheon is where King Gojong enjoyed coffee while discussing politics with foreign diplomats.
📌 Local Tip:
- Visit a vintage café in Jeongdong before heading to Jeonggwanheon
- Imagine King Gojong sipping coffee here over 100 years ago!
🍽️ Best Restaurants Near Deoksugung | Where to Eat After Your Visit
After exploring Deoksugung Palace, you’ll probably want to enjoy a delicious Korean meal.
Here are some of the best restaurants near Deoksugung, loved by locals!
1. Bukchangdong Sundubu – Warm & Spicy Korean Tofu Stew 🥘
- Location: 5-minute walk from Deoksugung
- Menu: Soft Tofu Stew ($8), Kimchi Stew ($8)
- What’s Special? Mild yet rich broth, a classic comfort food
📌 Must-Try Dishes:
✅ Seafood Sundubu (Soft Tofu Stew with Seafood)
✅ Kimchi Sundubu (Kimchi Soft Tofu Stew)
2. Jeongdong Gukbap – 50 Years of Traditional Korean Rice Soup 🍲
- Location: Near Jeongdong area
- Menu: Beef Soup ($9), Pork Soup ($9)
- What’s Special? Slow-cooked broth with rich flavors
📌 Perfect for:
✅ Cold days when you need something hot and filling
3. Gung – Royal Korean Cuisine in a Hanok Setting 🍽️
- Location: Near City Hall
- Menu: Korean Traditional Course Meal ($35 – $50)
- What’s Special? Dine in an authentic hanok (traditional Korean house)
📌 Must-Try Menu:
✅ Bulgogi Set Meal
✅ Royal Korean Traditional Course Meal
📍 Other Attractions Near Deoksugung
After visiting Deoksugung, explore some of the nearby attractions to complete your trip!
| Attraction | Why Visit? | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Seoul Museum of Art | Contemporary art exhibitions, free entry | 5-min walk |
| Jeongdong Theater | Traditional Korean performances | 3-min walk |
| Gwanghwamun Square | Statue of King Sejong & history exhibits | 10-min walk |
📌 Suggested Itineraries:
1️⃣ Deoksugung → Stone Wall Road → Seoul Museum of Art
2️⃣ Deoksugung → Jeongdong Theater → Traditional Korean Performance
3️⃣ Deoksugung → Gwanghwamun Square → Visit Gyeongbokgung
💡 Tips for the Best Deoksugung Experience
✅ Join a Free Guided Tour!
- Learn hidden stories about Deoksugung
- Available in Korean & English
✅ Visit at Night for a Magical Experience!
- Deoksugung’s night illumination is breathtaking
- The palace is open until 9:00 PM
✅ Time Your Visit for the Guard Ceremony!
- Best time to visit: 11:00 AM / 2:00 PM / 3:30 PM
- Enjoy both history and performance at once!
Now you’re ready to fully enjoy Deoksugung Palace! 😊
Follow this guide and experience one of the most unique royal palaces in Seoul! 🚀