Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁)

Registered as a Historic Site, Deoksugung Palace was initially not a royal palace, but the residential home of Grand Prince Wolsan (1454-1488), the older brother of King Seongjong (1469-1494) of the Joseon dynasty. It wasn't until 1593 that the palace was used as a temporary palace of the royal family after their home was burned down during the Imjin War. King Seonjo also stayed at Deoksugung Palace after returning to the city. It became a proper palace when Gwanghaegun (1575-1641) ascended to the throne and gave this royal residence the name Gyeongungung Palace in 1611. Over the following decades, the palace alternated between being an official palace and a temporary residence. The name did not change officially to Deoksugung Palace, meaning the “palace of virtuous longevity,” until 1907. While the palace once encompassed a vast area with many buildings, the current palace grounds are just a small shadow of the prior splendor, with very few structures remaining.

Opening Hours

09:00-21:00
* Last admission 1 hour before closing  

Holiday

Mondays (Closed the following business day in the case of Monday being a national holiday)  

Parking

Not available  

Inquiries

Management office: +82-2-771-9951
Information office: +82-2-751-0734
Seokjojeon Hall Information: +82-2-751-0753  

Admission Fees

1,000 won (Separate ticket must be purchased for the art museum)

Restrooms

Available