Deoksugung Palace

Very nice palace and green space. We didn't see the changing of the guards or see it at night, and I've heard it is beautiful then, but it's lovely on a warm spring day with the sun shining too. Great for kids and families, but we also saw lots of couples strolling the grounds. There is not a great deal of historical information provided here at each building compared to other places -- it's just a really nice place to be.

Deoksugung Palace wraps history in quiet elegance right in the center of Seoul. The soft stone paths the graceful rooftops and the blend of old and modern architecture make it feel like a gentle pause in time. It is not the biggest palace but it has heart and beauty. A peaceful place to wander reflect and take in the city from a calmer angle..

Very nice open ground park for a late night walk. You get to see remnants of the old Korean dynasties whilst still enjoying a light exercise. Admission is free as well. Once you walk to the end of the park area, you can visit one of the National Art Museums that have free admission on some special days. The park is walled up so you can only enter through the main entrance.

Deoksugung Palace has a beautiful mixture of western and Korean architecture. We went here in the evening so we missed out on the museum. It is smaller compared to the other palaces but I liked how this palace isn't too crowded.

In my opinion, if you can only visit one palace in Seoul, this is the one you should choose. It’s less crowded compared to others and even has a museum on-site. A really enjoyable experience!

I really liked the art gallery inside. The palace was good, you can chill a whole day and have a picnic, ensure you take some water with you.

Full of culture and charm. Beautiful place to walk around. K drama lover? ( another must go-to place to visit ). If you catch it at the right time, they put on a performance outside the front of the entrance. Very easy to get to using the naver app and not far from the subway station.

Deoksugung Palace: Where Humble Beginnings Lead to Royal Grandeur TLDR: Deoksugung Palace offers a captivating blend of Korean history and diverse architecture, from its unassuming entrance to its grand halls and Western influences. It's a unique and worthwhile exploration of Seoul's royal heritage. Standing before Daehanmun (大漢門), the main gate to Deoksugung Palace, it's easy to imagine the city's pulse shifting around this once less prominent gate. There's a sense of quiet resilience in its facade, hinting at the stories within. Royal Palace Pass: Snagging the Royal Palace Pass for just KRW 6,000 felt like unlocking a secret treasure map to Seoul's royal heritage. Five incredible sites for less than the price of two individual tickets? Yes, please! Royal Guard Changing Ceremony: The rhythmic beat of the drums and the vibrant colors of the Joseon Dynasty uniforms bring history to life right before your eyes at the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. It's a captivating 20-30 minute spectacle that truly transports you back in time. Junghwajeon (中和殿): Walking into the courtyard of Junghwajeon, the undisputed heart of Deoksugung Palace, you can't help but be amazed by its majestic presence. The intricate details of the roof seem to whisper tales of royal ceremonies and the weight of history held within its walls. Imagine the dignitaries who once stood on those very rank stones This building truly stands out as the palace's most beautiful structure. Seokjojeon stands in stark yet harmonious contrast to the traditional architecture, a stately Neo-Renaissance building that speaks of a fascinating period of cultural exchange. The Western-style garden and fountain offer a moment of unexpected European elegance. Seokjojeon: Then, a delightful surprise! Seokjojeon stands in stark yet harmonious contrast to the traditional architecture, a stately Neo-Renaissance building that speaks of a fascinating period of cultural exchange. The Western-style garden and fountain offer a moment of unexpected European elegance. Jeonggwanheon (靜觀軒). This pavilion elegantly blends Eastern and Western design elements and once served as the esteemed home for royal portraits of the Joseon dynasty. Its unique character is a testament to the palace's diverse history. Deokhongjeon (德弘殿) : For a truly serene and visually stunning experience, seek out Deokhongjeon (德弘殿). Built relatively recently in 1911, this hall exudes a harmonious and majestic aura from every angle. Its refined architecture and artistic details make it arguably the most photogenic spot within Deoksugung Palace. Perhaps the best part? You might just find yourself enjoying its beauty in relative tranquility, away from the crowds. Gwangmyeongmun Gate: This wasn't just any entrance, it was the main gate leading directly to Hamnyeongjeon, the sleeping quarters of King Gojong, the last king of Joseon and the first emperor of the Korean Empire. Don't just breeze through Deoksugung - take your time, wander through its diverse structures, and let the stories of its past unfold before you. It's a unique perspective on Seoul's royal heritage that's well worth savoring