This topic would like to introduce Deoksugung Palace, the old palace where Gojong, the last king of Joseon stayed.
1. Deoksugung Palace
Deoksugung Palace is the royal palace of Korea located in the center of Seoul.
This palace is the last royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty and is a place where you can see the history and culture of the Korean Peninsula at a glance. Deoksugung Palace, as its name suggests, “deok” means morality and “su” means discipline, and contains the meaning that the king will exercise moral and sincere rule for his people.
To enter Deoksugung Palace, you pass through Daehanmun Gate, the symbol of Taepyeong-ro. But it wasn't in its original location.
With the construction of Taepyeong-ro by the Japanese, the size of Deoksugung Palace was reduced and Daehanmun Gate was moved to the back. As Taepyeong-ro was expanded in 1968, it was moved back again and moved to its current location.
If you pass through Daehanmun and go straight, you will reach Junghwamun (Treasure No. 819), which is the entrance to Junghwajeon, the main hall of Deoksugung Palace. There are rank stones lined up in front of Junghwajeon, and Seogeodang, a wooden mid-rise building within the palace, is also worth noting.
It is the place where King Seonjo, who returned to Korea during the Japanese Invasion of Korea, stayed and passed away, and it is the place where Gwanghaegun was imprisoned after the Injo Rebellion. Borugak Jagyeonggnu (National Treasure No. 229), which houses the water clock, is the only national treasure within the palace. Inside Deoksugung Palace, there is Seokjojeon, the first Western-style building. It was built in the early 20th century and is currently used as the Deoksugung Palace Art Museum.
2. Main tourist attractions in Deoksugung Palace
Deoksugung Palace is popular with visitors due to its size and beautiful structure.
Major tourist attractions include traditional Korean buildings such as Jeonggak, Deoksugung Palace Stone Wall Road, and Deoksugung Palace Ferris Wheel.
Jeonggak: Jeonggak is where the king and queen of the Joseon Dynasty conducted state affairs.
It showcases traditional Korean architecture, and visitors can experience Korean history here.
Deoksugung Stone Wall Road: This stone wall road surrounds Deoksugung Palace and is a peaceful walking path located in the heart of Seoul.
Deoksugung Palace Ferris Wheel: The Deoksugung Palace Ferris Wheel is the best location to view the beautiful scenery of Deoksugung Palace and its surroundings.
Gojong's Café, Jeonggwanheon: Inside Deoksugung Palace, there is Jeonggwanheon, a building that combines the architectural styles of Hanok and Western-style houses.
It has Romanesque stone pillars and verandas, and our traditional patterns are engraved on the top of the pillars. It is said to be a place where King Gojong held banquets and enjoyed drinking tea, and it can be said to be Korea's first cafe.
3. History and culture of Deoksugung Palace
Deoksugung Palace leaves a great impression on visitors due to its history and culture.
This palace helps us understand Korea's past through its history and culture.
Deoksugung Palace is the last royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, and its history is intertwined with the history of the Joseon Dynasty. Additionally, this palace showcases Korea's traditional culture and provides opportunities to experience traditional Korean music, dance, and art.
4. Tips for visiting Deoksugung Palace
There are a few tips to keep in mind when visiting Deoksugung Palace.
First, Deoksugung Palace is busiest on weekends, so if possible, we recommend visiting during the week.
Second, Deoksugung Palace shows different beauty depending on the season, so it is a good idea to consider the timing of your visit depending on the season.
Third, Deoksugung Palace is large, so be sure to allow plenty of time.
Fourth, we recommend using a tour guide to better understand the history and culture of Deoksugung Palace.
Deoksugung Palace, the last royal palace of Joseon is an essential place to understand Korean history and culture. Its beauty and history will leave a lasting impression on visitors. Experience Korean history and culture and feel Korean traditions while visiting Deoksugung Palace. These experiences will make your trip to Korea even more special.