🏯 Palaces of Seoul: A Royal Journey Through Korean History
Seoul isn't just a modern megacity full of skyscrapers and K-pop—it’s also a place where you can step back in time to Korea’s royal past. The city is home to five grand palaces from the Joseon Dynasty, each offering a unique glimpse into traditional architecture, court life, and Korean culture.
Here’s your guide to exploring Seoul’s Five Great Palaces.
1. 👑 Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)
📍 Jongno-gu
Built in 1395, this is the largest and most iconic of the five palaces. Gyeongbokgung was the main royal residence and symbolizes the power and dignity of the Joseon Dynasty.
- Highlights:
- Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony (10:00 AM & 2:00 PM daily, except Tuesdays)
- Gyeonghoeru Pavilion (set above a lotus pond)
- National Palace Museum of Korea & National Folk Museum on site
- Tip: Wear a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) for free entry and great photos!
- Closed on Tuesdays
2. 🐉 Changdeokgung Palace (창덕궁)
📍 Jongno-gu
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Changdeokgung is known for its harmonious integration with nature. It was a favorite residence of many kings.
- Highlights:
- The Secret Garden (Huwon) tour – peaceful, poetic, and only accessible by guided tour
- Beautiful autumn foliage and cherry blossoms in spring
- Tip: Book the English guided tour in advance for Huwon access.
3. 🏯 Changgyeonggung Palace (창경궁)
📍 Next to Changdeokgung
Originally built as a residence for queens and concubines, this palace has a gentler, more intimate feel. It’s especially beautiful at night when lanterns light the paths.
- Highlights:
- Serene palace grounds
- Nighttime light-up events in spring/summer
- Connected to Changdeokgung through a rear gate
- Tip: Perfect for a romantic evening stroll
4. 📜 Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁)
📍 City Hall area
Located in the heart of downtown Seoul, Deoksugung blends Western neoclassical buildings with traditional palace structures. It was the final residence of the last Joseon king.
- Highlights:
- Changing of the Guard ceremony at the main gate
- Seokjojeon Hall (a Western-style building used for royal meetings)
- Deoksugung Stone Wall Road—one of Seoul’s most romantic walking routes
- Tip: Open late (until 9 PM), so you can enjoy the palace under the stars
5. 🏰 Gyeonghuigung Palace (경희궁)
📍 Near Gwanghwamun
The smallest and quietest of the five, Gyeonghuigung is often overlooked but offers a peaceful escape from the busy city.
- Highlights:
- Free admission
- Korean history exhibits in the adjacent Seoul Museum of History
- Tip: Great for travelers who prefer quiet, uncrowded spots
🎫 Tickets & Passes
- You can buy a "Royal Palace Pass" for around ₩10,000, which gives access to Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung (excluding Secret Garden), Changgyeonggung, and Deoksugung.
- Free admission in hanbok, and sometimes on special public holidays.
🧭 Final Tips for Palace-Hopping:
- Most palaces are within walking distance or one subway stop from each other.
- Morning visits offer fewer crowds and cooler weather.
- Try to catch at least one guard ceremony—it's colorful, cultural, and great for photos.
- Visit in spring or autumn for the most beautiful natural backdrops.
Exploring the palaces of Seoul is more than sightseeing—it's a journey into Korea’s soul, where every stone wall and curved rooftop tells a story of its royal past.
