Travel Map: Seoul

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Deoksugung Palace, located in Jeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, is the last palace of the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire (1897-1910). It is a unique blend of traditional Korean houses and Western-style architecture.
After Emperor Gojong ascended the throne as Emperor of the Korean Empire, he made it the central palace, marking a turning point in Korean history.

Deoksugung Palace, meaning “Palace of Virtuous Longevity,” was named after Emperor Gojong of the Korean Empire, when his son, Sunjong, moved to Changdeokgung Palace in hopes of his health and longevity. Inside, the palace features various buildings, including the main hall, Junghwajeon Hall (where coronation ceremonies and other state ceremonies were held), Seokjojeon Hall (the first Western-style stone building in a Korean palace), Jeonggwanheon Hall (a banquet hall exclusively for the royal family), Yongsanmun Gate, Deokhongjeon Hall, and Junmyeongdang Hall. The palace also boasts a variety of structures, including artificial waterways and beautiful stone walls.

Seokjojeon Hall, in particular, is a Victorian-style palace building, renowned as Korea’s first Western-style palace, built in the early 1900s. Its historical significance reflects the Korean Empire’s commitment to modernization, with Western-style banquets and receptions for foreign delegations.

Another landmark of Deoksugung Palace is the daily “Changing of the Royal Guard Ceremony” held in front of Daehanmun (the main gate). This ceremony is a popular cultural experience for tourists and a symbol of tradition. After touring the palace, visitors can stroll along the “Deoksugung Stone Wall Road” or explore the nearby Jeongdong area to experience the history of the Korean Empire and modern Seoul.

Deoksugung Palace Opening Hours

• Deoksugung Palace General Opening Hours: Year-round 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last admission 8:00 PM)
• Stone Hall Exhibition Hall: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Last admission 4:30 PM, online reservations required)
• Dondeokjeon Hall and Jungmyeongjeon Hall: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Last admission 5:00 PM)
• Deoksugung Palace is open at night, allowing for evening visits. Guided tours of Stone Hall are available by reservation.
• Closed every Monday, January 1st, Lunar New Year’s Day, and Chuseok.

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