Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁)

Overview

* Special closure on March 21, 2026

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.

Location

How to Get There

Info: +82-2-771-9951

Best Time to Visit

South Korea has four distinct seasons. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally the best times to visit for comfortable weather and scenic beauty. Summer (June–August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December–February) brings cold temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photos

Images: Korea Tourism Organization · Source required