Skip to content
Korea boasts a rich history and vibrant culture that spans thousands of years, dating back to the Goguryeo Dynasty. Korea’s historical and cultural legacy from food, music, and arts to architecture has lived to today. We might be familiar with Korean cuisine, K-Pop, and K-Drama but how much do we know about the traditional architecture in Korea? Korean palaces and hanoks (traditional Korean houses) are the most representative architecture tourists can still visit today. Let’s unravel the top 5 royal palaces in Korea you must visit!
What are the 5 royal palaces in Korea?
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung is the largest and most iconic palace in Seoul. Due to its huge perimeter, it used to serve as the main royal palace, living up to its reputation as one of the top royal palaces in Korea. Today, although only some buildings are restored and maintained, it is still magnificent to look at, especially its beautiful architecture. A fun fact, the palace complex originally contained hundreds of buildings during its prime time but sadly underwent destruction during the Japanese invasions in the late 16th century.
One of the main attractions at Gyeongbokgung is the Changing of the Guard Ceremony where tourists can witness the traditional ceremony held at the main gate, which features colorful costumes and an impressive display of ceremonial military drills. Gyeongbokgung also houses the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea where you can explore exhibitions about the palace’s history, architecture, and significance.
There is also a special evening tour only held twice a year during Spring and Fall for a limited period. Check their official website for further information. Foreigners can get their tickets online, on-site (limited to 300 tickets per night), or get free admission by wearing a Hanbok. Be sure to visit one of the royal palaces in Korea this time!
Closest subway station: Gyeongbokgung station (경복궁역) on line 3
2. Changdeokgung Palace
One of the other royal palaces in Korea you must visit is Changdeokgung. The complex was built in 1405 and served as the secondary palace. It is said that Changdeokgung was favored by many Joseon kings for its beautiful gardens and harmonious architecture. Similar to Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung also suffered major damage during the Japanese occupation but restoration efforts were made to preserve and uphold the nation’s culture and heritage. In 1997, the palace was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Changdeokgung features one of the most beautiful attractions, the Secret Garden. It is a beautiful landscape known for its tranquility, historic pavilions, and diverse flora, particularly during cherry blossom season in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Explore the main palace buildings and participate in seasonal cultural programs, such as traditional music performances or seasonal festivals.
Changdeokgung Palace is another royal site in Korea that offers stunning night tours through its annual Moonlight Tour. Typically held during the autumn months, this seasonal event allows visitors to experience the palace grounds after dark. Since this is a paid event, please visit the official website for the most up-to-date schedule and ticket information.
Closest subway station: Anguk station (안국역) on line 3.
3. Deoksugung Palace
Here’s a little background on one of the royal palaces in Korea, Deoksugung. Initially built in the late 14th century, it has historical significance as a royal residence during the late Joseon period. Only during the late 19th century, it is designated as the main royal palace. Parts of the structure were rebuilt or modified during the 20th century hence notable for its blend of Western and traditional Korean architectural styles.
Similar to Gyeongbokgung, Deoksugung hosts a changing of the guard ceremony, providing a glimpse into traditional royal customs. A unique structure surrounding the palace is the Stonewall Walkway that connects Deoksugung to nearby Seoul attractions like the Seoul Museum of Art and the popular shopping district of Myeongdong.
If you wish to savor the night in Deoksugung like the other royal palaces in Korea, you can consider going for the ‘Seokjojeon at Night‘ event. For detailed tour information, click here.
Closest subway station: City Hall station (시청역) on line 1 or 2.
4. Changgyeonggung Palace
Established in the 15th century, Changgyeonggung was used as a residence for queens and concubines of the Joseon kings. Today, it features historical exhibitions and is known for its beautiful gardens! Do you know that a zoo was initially established on the grounds in the early 1900s? However, it was later demolished.
Being one of the most popular royal palaces in Korea, Changgyeonggung is known for its beautiful flora landscape. You can explore the palace’s unique architecture as well as take a leisure walk through the palace’s grounds. Furthermore, you can also partake in traditional crafts or tea ceremonies. If you visit during special festivals, there are traditional performances and games too!
Immerse in the atmosphere of grace under the moonlight as Changgyeonggung offers night hours of operation. Good to note that they are open at all times until 9 pm but closed on Monday. Visitors can experience carrying cheongsachorong (traditional Korean lanterns) and walk through the palace at night.
Closest subway station: Anguk station (안국역) on line 3.
5. Temporary Palace at Hwaseong Fortress
Located in Suwon, this Temporary Palace at Hwaseong Fortress was constructed by King Jeongjo in the late 18th century as a base for visiting his father’s tomb. It reflects the king’s desire to uphold filial piety towards the royal family and ancestors. Filial piety has shaped social norms and family dynamics in Korea for centuries.
Let us share why this is one of the top 5 royal palaces in Korea you must visit. The impressive Hwaseong Fortress itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are well-maintained scenic walking paths in the surrounding area where you can enjoy hiking while taking in the panoramic views of natural beauty. The on-site exhibitions and cultural events showcase the history of the traditional Korean customs and practices from the Joseon era. Surely a great experience to enjoy nature and history at the same time.
Explore the enchanting night beauty of the Temporary Palace at Hwaseong Fortress through the Special Evening Admission! Find out more about their events in this link.
Directions from Seoul:
- Take subway line 1 to Suwon station (수원역)
- Get out from exit 7, and go to the nearest bus stop. Most buses go to Hwaseong Fortress. For reference, take bus 66, 60, 5, 777, or 900. Alight at Hwaseomun Gate Jangan Park (화서문 장안공원).
- Walk towards the direction of the Temporary Palace in the compound of Hwaseong Fortress.
Here we sum up our picks on the top 5 royal palaces in Korea. Share with us some of your favorite royal palaces in Korea if you do visit!
If you’re keen to find out how we can help you study and live in Korea, be sure to contact us or find more out in this article. Also, don’t forget to follow the Go! Go! Hanguk blog for more content!
