Deoksugung is a royal palace in the heart of Seoul, right beside City Hall, uniquely blending traditional Korean wooden halls with Western-style stone buildings. It was the center of the Korean Empire under Emperor Gojong, whose modern-era legacy survives in structures like Jeonggwanheon and the Neo-Classical Seokjojeon. It is loved for its main halls and stone-wall walk by day and its illuminated grounds by night.
Junghwajeon, the palace's main throne hall, where Gojong held state ceremonies and received foreign envoys
Seokjojeon, a Neo-Classical Western building with Greek-style columns, now the Daehan Empire History Museum
The Changing of the Royal Guard at Daehanmun Gate, a free spectacle of period uniforms and traditional instruments
Deoksugung Stone Wall Road (doldamgil) and Jeongdong-gil, one of Seoul's most scenic and romantic walking streets
Nighttime opening until 9 PM, with the palace grounds beautifully lit
Good to know
RulesThe palace is closed every Monday, and last admission is one hour before closing. Confirm current hours and fees before your visit.
RulesSeokjojeon (Daehan Empire History Museum) is free but can only be entered on a guided tour by reservation. Arrive on time, and note that you must remove your shoes for indoor slippers inside.
MannersWhen watching the guard-changing ceremony (around 11:00, 14:00, 15:30), do not block the guards' procession, and stay quiet and hands-off near the wooden halls and artifacts.
SeasonThe stone wall road gets very crowded during autumn foliage. Prepare for summer heat and sudden rain, winter ice, and bring a layer for night visits when temperatures drop sharply.
SafetyThe adjacent City Hall Plaza can be crowded or restricted for rallies and events. Follow staff announcements and barriers, and watch your belongings in crowds.
Practical info
A 1-2 minute walk from City Hall Station (Lines 1/2), Exit 2 or 12. Adult admission is a small fee (about 1,000 won); free for hanbok wearers, under 7, over 65, and on Culture Day (last Wednesday of the month). An integrated ticket also covers the four grand palaces plus Jongmyo. Verify hours and prices on the official site before visiting.
On-site reviews📍 Verified on-site
No reviews yet. If you are here, be the first to leave one.
