Deoksugung is unique among Seoul’s “Five Grand Palaces” because it blends traditional Korean palace architecture with Western-style buildings, reflecting Korea’s transitional era in the late 19th and early 20th century. The palace is smaller and easier to walk through compared to Gyeongbokgung.

Deoksugung Palace is so beautiful in autumn, when the grounds fill with golden ginkgo trees and bright red maples. It’s a popular spot for locals because most tourists head to the bigger palaces like Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung.

Location & Directions

• Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 중구 세종대로 99)

• Subway: City Hall Station (Line 1/2, Exit 1, 2, or 12) → 2-minute walk

• Naver map: https://naver.me/G8s9Z7Nx

Hours & Admission

• Hours: 9:00–21:00 (last admission 1 hr before closing); Closed: Mondays

• Tickets: Adults (19–64): 1,000 won; Youth (7–18): 500 won); Free: Children under 7, seniors 65+, visitors wearing hanbok, and on Culture Day (last Wed of each month)

• Combination Ticket: 10,000 won (adults) / 5,000 won (youth) for all 4 palaces + Jongmyo Shrine, valid 3 months.

Visiting tips

• Check out the Changing of the Royal Guards Ceremony: Times: 11:00, 14:00, 15:30

• Recommended Route: Daehanmun Gate at Deoksugung → Seoul Plaza → Cheonggye Plaza → Gwangtonggyo Bridge → Bosingak Bell.

• Free Guided Tours (1 hr): English: Tue–Sun at 10:45 & 13:30; Chinese: Tue–Sun at 10:00 & 14:30

• Bosingak Bell Ringing Ceremony: Takes place daily at 12:00, often tied in with the guard ceremony route.

Don't miss:

• Deoksugung Stone Wall Road famous for its stone walkway, especially in autumn.

• Jeongdong Observatory & Café Darak – 13th floor of Seoul City Hall Seosomun Building, with a panoramic view of the palace and surrounding area.