Deoksugung Palace Seoul
A historic royal palace in Seoul showcasing a unique blend of Korean and Western architecture, famous for its vibrant Changing of the Royal Guard cere...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Deoksugung Palace Seoul
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic royal palace in Seoul showcasing a unique blend of Korean and Western architecture, famous for its vibrant Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony.
"A beautiful and historically rich palace offering a free glimpse into Korea's royal past with a stunning guard ceremony."
🎯 Arrive Early for Guard Ceremony
The Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony is popular. Arrive 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot.
👗 Rent a Hanbok
Enhance your visit by renting a Hanbok for beautiful photos. Many shops are located nearby.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Changing of the Royal Guard
Main Gate
Witness a vibrant and colorful ceremony reenacting the ancient royal guard changing ritual. A true spectacle!
Deoksugung Palace Architecture
Various Buildings
Admire the unique blend of traditional Korean and Western architectural styles, a testament to its historical significance.
Seokjojeon Hall
Western-style Building
Explore the elegant Western-style building, which now houses a museum showcasing the palace's history.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Hanbok & Photography Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Guard Ceremony
The Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony is popular. Arrive 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot.
👗 Rent a Hanbok
Enhance your visit by renting a Hanbok for beautiful photos. Many shops are located nearby.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Wander through the palace grounds to appreciate the unique blend of traditional and Western architecture.
🏛️ Visit Seokjojeon Hall
Don't miss Seokjojeon Hall, a Western-style building with an informative museum inside.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Guard Ceremony
The Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony is popular. Arrive 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot.
👗 Rent a Hanbok
Enhance your visit by renting a Hanbok for beautiful photos. Many shops are located nearby.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Wander through the palace grounds to appreciate the unique blend of traditional and Western architecture.
🏛️ Visit Seokjojeon Hall
Don't miss Seokjojeon Hall, a Western-style building with an informative museum inside.
💰 Free Admission
Admission to Deoksugung Palace is free! Some special exhibitions or areas might have a small fee.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Deoksugung Palace for its free admission, unique architectural blend, and the captivating Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony. It's seen as a peaceful escape in the heart of Seoul, offering great photo opportunities, especially when wearing traditional Hanbok. Some find the palace smaller compared to others, and the crowds during peak times can be a drawback.
"Impressive and architecturally stunning! A great showcase of culture and history, such beautiful grounds which were significantly more extensive than I originally had anticipated. A wonderful palace to spend a few hours strolling about. And entrance fee is only 3000 won, which can either be paid for by cash or card. On a hot day, definitely bring drinks to hydrate and an umbrella/parasol for shade! These made exploring the palace all the more enjoyable and manageable in the heat."
Karina O'Flynn
"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."
Shawn Pendley
"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.."
Mia Vera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Deoksugung Palace is easily accessible via Seoul's subway system. Take Line 1 or 2 to City Hall Station (Exit 12) or Line 1 to Seoul Station (Exit 1). It's a short walk from either station.
Yes, Deoksugung Palace is centrally located in Seoul, close to Myeongdong shopping district and other historical sites, making it convenient for a day of sightseeing.
The Seoul subway is highly efficient and recommended for getting around. Consider purchasing a T-Money card for easy tap-and-go travel on subways and buses.
Limited parking is available at the palace, but it's often full. Using public transportation is highly recommended to avoid parking hassles.
Taxis are readily available in Seoul. You can tell the driver 'Deoksugung Palace' or show them the address. It's a convenient option, especially if you have luggage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Deoksugung Palace is generally free for all visitors. This makes it a fantastic budget-friendly attraction in Seoul.
Deoksugung Palace is typically open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with the last admission at 8:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.
Advance booking is not required for general entry as it's free. However, if you plan to join a guided tour or visit specific exhibitions, it's advisable to check their booking policies.
Since entry is free, there are no discounts. However, wearing a Hanbok may grant you free entry to some other palaces, but Deoksugung is already free.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. The Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony, while a highlight, will naturally draw more people.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
This is a daily reenactment of the traditional ceremony where royal guards changed shifts. It's a colorful and engaging spectacle with traditional costumes and music.
The ceremony typically occurs twice a day, at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, except on Mondays. It's best to confirm the exact times on the day of your visit.
Yes, you are welcome to wear a Hanbok. Many visitors rent them nearby to take photos and immerse themselves in the historical atmosphere.
Guided tours are often available in Korean and sometimes in English. Check the palace's official website or inquire at the information center for schedules and availability.
Take your time to walk around the grounds, admire the architecture, and visit the Seokjojeon Hall museum. The palace offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
📸 📸 Photography
The main gate with the guard ceremony, the unique blend of traditional and Western buildings, and the palace grounds offer excellent photo opportunities. Renting a Hanbok can elevate your pictures.
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas and courtyards. Inside some buildings, especially museums like Seokjojeon Hall, photography might be restricted. Look for signage.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful natural light, especially during the 'golden hour,' which can enhance your photos. Weekdays will also mean fewer people in your shots.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around historical sites like Deoksugung Palace to protect the structures and ensure visitor safety. Always check local regulations.
Many visitors enjoy capturing the contrast between the traditional Korean architecture and the modern Seoul skyline visible from certain vantage points within the palace.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting a Hanbok for a fun family photo opportunity. While the palace itself is not overly large, it's a manageable size for younger children. Pack some snacks and water, as amenities within the palace are limited. The nearby areas also offer family-friendly dining options.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best shots, visit during the golden hour in the late afternoon for soft, warm light. Renting a Hanbok can add a vibrant cultural element to your photos. The Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony offers a chance to capture dynamic action shots, but be prepared for crowds.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding areas like Myeongdong for affordable street food and shopping. Utilizing Seoul's efficient and inexpensive subway system is also key to keeping travel costs down.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Architecture of Deoksugung Palace
Visitors often remark on the striking contrast between the serene, natural beauty of the Korean buildings and the more formal, grand presence of the Western-style structures. The Seokjojeon Hall, in particular, with its stone facade and classical design, serves as a reminder of the palace's role as a royal residence during a time of significant cultural exchange and political change. Exploring these diverse architectural elements provides a deeper understanding of the palace's historical context and its significance as a cultural heritage site.
This unique architectural character makes Deoksugung Palace a highly photogenic location. The interplay of different styles creates dynamic compositions, whether you're capturing the intricate details of a traditional pavilion or the stately grandeur of Seokjojeon Hall against the Seoul skyline. It’s a place where history is not just told, but also visually experienced through its very structures.
Experiencing the Royal Guard Ceremony
To fully enjoy the ceremony, it's recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start time, especially on weekends or holidays, as popular viewing spots can fill up quickly. The main gate of the palace is the primary location for the ceremony, and standing close to the entrance provides the best vantage point. The colorful uniforms and the rhythmic sounds of traditional instruments make it a memorable experience.
While the ceremony is a highlight, remember that it can draw significant crowds. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on a weekday. The energy and historical significance of the Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony make it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Deoksugung Palace, offering a tangible connection to Korea's royal past.
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