Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace is a unique royal palace in central Seoul that seamlessly blends traditional Korean wooden structures with early 20th-century Western-style buildings. Unlike Seoul's other grand palaces, Deoksugung offers an intimate, walkable scale with a mix of architectural styles that reflect Korea's encounter with the West. The palace grounds include the elegant Seokjojeon Hall, a neoclassical stone building that once served as a royal residence and now houses a museum, and the traditional Junghwajeon Hall, the main throne hall with its ornate interior. The palace is particularly famous for its picturesque stone-wall road, a popular spot for couples and photographers, especially in autumn when the maple trees turn red. Visitors can also explore the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place at the main gate. The palace's central location makes it an easy addition to any Seoul itinerary, and its compact size allows for a relaxed visit.

Don't miss

• Watch the colorful changing of the guard ceremony at the main gate (Daehanmun), held several times daily.
• Explore Seokjojeon Hall, a Western-style building that now hosts the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art's Deoksugung branch.
• Stroll along the famous Deoksugung Stone Wall Road, especially beautiful in spring with cherry blossoms or autumn with foliage.
• Visit Junghwajeon Hall to see the intricate throne and royal artifacts.
• Relax in the palace's serene garden, which features a pond, pavilions, and ancient trees.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Deoksugung Palace

Cheapest way inGyeongbokgung Palace Hanbok Rental Experience in Seoul4.1★ · 89 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$7 per personSee dates →Best full dayBest DMZ Tour Korea from Seoul (Suspension Bridge & JSA Museum)4.9★ · 47,489 travelers7–9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$50 per personSee dates →Top ratedSeoul: Gyeongbok Palace, Hanok Village, and Gwangjang Tour5★ · 1,977 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$33 per personSee dates →

Know before you go

• Rent a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) from nearby shops for free palace entry and great photos.
• Check the changing of the guard schedule; it usually occurs at 11:00, 14:00, and 15:30, but times may vary.
• The stone wall road is a popular photo spot; visit early to avoid crowds.
• Combine with a visit to nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace or the Seoul Museum of Art for a full day of culture.

A bit of history

Originally a residential villa for Prince Wolsan in the 15th century, Deoksugung became a royal palace after the Japanese invasions in the late 16th century. It served as the main palace during the late Joseon Dynasty and was where King Gojong lived after his abdication in 1907.