Deoksugung Palace

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.

This palace is a really lovely oasis right in the middle of the city near City Hall. It cost almost nothing to enter the park so you’ll see a nice mix of Taurus and locals just looking to relax and enjoy the beautiful historical buildings and nature within the walls. When I was here, they were exhibitions in two of the buildings. One was a really beautiful exploration of Korean art and its evolution after securing freedom from colonial Japan. The other was actually specifically a celebration of independence had a look at some of the events leading up to and some of the documents related directly to the Korean independence movement and the establishment of Korea as an independent country. All in all, a really beautiful and educational set of spaces that cost almost nothing to experience.

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..

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.

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

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.

A peaceful and scenic palace with a unique city contrast Deoksugung Palace wasn’t originally on my list, but I’m glad I stopped by. It’s less crowded than the more famous palaces, which makes the visit much more relaxed and enjoyable. What really stood out to me was the contrast between the traditional palace buildings and the modern skyscrapers in the background — it creates a really striking and memorable view. The palace grounds are not too large, so it’s an easy and pleasant walk, perfect if you’re just starting a traditional heritage tour in Seoul. While it may not be a must-see compared to Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung, it’s definitely worth a visit if you're nearby or looking for a quieter experience. Recommended if you enjoy architecture, photography, or want a peaceful stop with a unique blend of old and new. More pics at my IG: @ogolphotos