Deoksugung Palace and Seokjojeon in Seoul: A Window into Korea's Royal Heritage

 

Welcome to "Korea Nook," your ultimate source for discovering hidden treasures within Korea's vibrant tourism scene. Today, we're embarking on an adventure to uncover the secrets of Deoksugung Palace, a mesmerizing historical gem nestled in the heart of Seoul. Immerse yourself in the captivating history and cultural significance of Deoksugung Palace as we take you on a journey through time. Let's dive into the enchanting world of Deoksugung Palace!

 

Table of Contents

• Introducing Deoksugung Palace
• Deoksugung Palace's Historical Journey
• Practical Information for Explorers
• Free Guide Service
• Guided Tour of Seokjojeon: Korean Empire History Museum

 

 

 

Introducing Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace, also known as the Palace of Virtuous Longevity, stands as a testament to Korea's illustrious past, with roots tracing back to the Joseon Dynasty. Once called the Myeongryejeon, this palace began its journey as a secondary royal residence. However, in the aftermath of the Imjin War, it rose to prominence as the primary palace and was eventually granted full royal status during King Gwanghaegun's reign. It even held the title of an "hwanggung" or imperial palace during the Korean Empire era. In 1907, the palace underwent a name change to become Deoksugung.

Situated opposite Seoul City Hall on Sejong-daero in Jung-gu, Seoul, Deoksugung Palace now occupies a fraction of its original size during the imperial era. The surrounding area boasts notable landmarks like the Romanesque-style Myeongdong Cathedral, the central offices of the Anglican Church, and several foreign embassies.

 

 

 

 

Deoksugung Palace's Historical Journey

The Home of Prince Wolsan

The roots of Deoksugung Palace stretch back to 1469, during the reign of King Yejong, when it was the residence of Prince Wolsan. Originally linked to the Nam'i Uprising involving Jo Yeong-dal, it later became the Song family's residence and was renamed Yeongeunggung. As Prince Wolsan, eldest son of Prince Yeong, took over, it transformed into a site for rituals honoring his father.

The story behind the transformation of Prince Wolsan's residence varies. Some suggest it was built for Lady Su, a former royal consort, but it eventually became associated with Prince Yeong's rituals. During King Seongjong's reign, Lady Su became Queen Dowager, and the residence served as her dwelling.

Jeongneung-dong Haenggung Palace

In the wake of the Imjin War's destruction of other palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, King Seonjo sought refuge in Jeongneung-dong. This temporary palace, called Jeongneung Palace, saw expansion by absorbing nearby homes to address its limited space. Structures like Junggwajeon and Seokjojeon in Deoksugung Palace today echo this era, portraying aristocratic homes more than traditional palace architecture.

Gyeongun Palace

King Gwanghaegun temporarily resided at Jeongneung-dong HaenggungPalace for two years during the reconstruction of Changdeokgung's main hall in 1609. While he moved to Changdeokgung, he maintained connections to Jeongneung-dong Palace.

Gwanghaegun officially promoted it to a palace by naming it Gyeongunggung Palace at Haenggung Palace in Jeongneung-dong, and built several new halls in the palace after the expansion of Gyeongunggung Palace.

This palace's significance persisted through the Injo Persecution, with Jeongjeon and its surroundings remaining intact. The coronation of King Injo even took place at Gyeongunggung Palace.

Imperial Palace of the Korean Empire

Abandoned after the Injo Persecution, Jeongneung-dong Palace reemerged in 1897 as a central palace under King Gojong's revival efforts. The palace underwent transformations to accommodate King Gojong's needs, becoming a backdrop for key Korean Empire events. During this period, key buildings like Jungwangeun, Seokjojeon, and Jeonggwanheon were constructed, defining the palace's form.

The Fire Incident and Beyond

In 1904, a fire wreaked havoc on Deoksugung Palace, causing severe damage. King Gojong's attachment led to its reconstruction, culminating in structures like Seokjojeon. The name Deoksugung was adopted in 1907, marking a significant historical decision.

Japanese Colonial Period and Restoration

The Japanese colonial period witnessed demolition and damage to Deoksugung Palace. The Korean War also threatened its existence, but intervention saved it. Restoration efforts are ongoing.

Transition to Deoksugung Palace

The reasons for changing the name of the palace from Gyeongunggung Palace to Deoksugung Palace are as follows. According to the Annals of King Sunjong, the name Deoksu was used even before King Sunjong wrote it, and Lee Yoon-yong of the palace decided the name Deoksu, and King Sunjong approved it.

However, Lee Yoon-yong, who named Deoksu, was a pro-Japanese group, and he suggested King Gojong to represent the official affairs to the crown prince, causing him to clean up by proxy. Lee Wan-yong worked to change Daeri to Yangwi, the emperor, and Gojong and Sunjong did not attend the Yangwi ceremony. Lee Wan-yong impeached the ministers inside the palace and placed his half-brother, Lee Yoon-yong, inside the palace. The name Deoksugung Palace is one of the names given to the palace where the deposed monarch stays, and when the abdicated situation dies, he had to return to the original name of the palace.

Debate on Restoration

Debate persists about restoring the palace's name to Gyeongunggung Palace. Supporters of the name Deoksugung Palace argue for its century-long use, while proponents of Jeongneung-dong Palace emphasize historical accuracy.

 

 

 

 

Practical Information for Explorers

Visiting Details

• Closure: Deoksugung Palace is closed every Monday.
• Ticketing and Entry: 09:00 AM - 08:00 PM
• Visiting Hours: 09:00 AM - 09:00 PM (★Extended evening hours until 09:00 PM★)

Admission Fees for International Visitors

• Adults (19-64 years old): 1,000 won for individuals, 800 won for groups of 10 or more.
• Free Admission:
  • Children under 18 years old, Adults over 65 years old.
  • "Culture Day" (last Wednesday of each month).
  • Visitors in traditional Korean hanbok.
• With the purchase of a Royal Palace Pass, admission for 4 palaces and Jongmyo Shrine is valid within three months. (10,000won, 4 palaces: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace and Deoksugung Palace)

Note that separate reservations are required for Seokjojeon and the History Museum of the Korean Empire. 

Explore the Deoksugung Museum of Art with separate admission tickets.

 

 

 

Free Guide Service

Visiting Details

• Closure: Deoksugung Palace is closed every Monday.
• Ticketing and Entry: 09:00 AM - 08:00 PM
• Visiting Hours: 09:00 AM - 09:00 PM (★Extended evening hours until 09:00 PM★)

Admission Fees for International Visitors

• Professional guides offer tours of the palace, which last one hour and allow visitors to discover the palace's highlights. Tours are available in English, Japanese, and Chinese.
• There are no tours in foreign languages on national holidays.
• Please note that the tour may be canceled due to unavoidable circumstances.
• The one-hour tour begins in front of the General Information Board.

Note that separate reservations are required for Seokjojeon and the History Museum of the Korean Empire. 

 

 

 

Guided Tour of Seokjojeon: Korean Empire History Museum

Seokjojeon in Deoksugung Palace blends Korean and Western architecture, signifying Korea's modern shift. Originally stone-based, it's an architectural hybrid with a brick core, showcasing Korea's adaptation. A remarkable symbol of historical progression.

Location and Duration

• Exhibition Halls 1 and 2, Seokjojeon, Korean Empire History Museum
• Standard Tour: 40 to 45 minutes
• In-depth Tour: 65 to 70 minutes

Reservation Information

Online Advance Reservation

• Application Date:
  • Available from one week before the tour date, starting at 10 AM
• Application Method:
  • First-come, first-served reservation, with 15 slots available for online advance reservation
  • Each person can reserve up to 5 tickets

※ On-site Participation (5 slots): Limited to individuals aged 65 and above, as well as foreigners. Relevant identification is required.
☞ Identification for individuals aged 65 and above: Choose one from resident registration card or driver's license

☞ Identification for foreigners: Choose one from passport or alien registration card

On-site Reservation

Not available.

However, on-site reservations are possible for English tours at 11:50 AM and 2:50 PM.

Applicants must be foreigners or accompanying foreigners (up to 2 for each foreigner) with Korean citizens. Proof of foreign identity is required.

☞ Identification for foreigners: Choose one from passport or alien registration card

• Reservation method is first-come, first-served at the Seokjojeon Korean Empire History Museum information desk, with a maximum of 20 slots per session.

 

Tour Schedule

• Tuesday (6 sessions)
• In-depth Tour: 9:30 AM, 4:30 PM / Standard Tour: 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM
• Wednesday to Friday (9 sessions)
• In-depth Tour: 9:30 AM, 4:30 PM / Standard Tour: 10:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM
• Saturday to Sunday (11 sessions)
• In-depth Tour: 9:30 AM, 4:30 PM / Standard Tour: 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 3:30 PM
• Public Holidays (6 sessions)
• In-depth Tour: 9:30 AM, 4:30 PM / Standard Tour: 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM

In-depth Tour Information

• Tour Times: 9:30 AM, 4:30 PM / Twice daily

 

As you set foot within Deoksugung Palace, prepare for a captivating journey through time. From regal abodes to lush gardens, Deoksugung Palace invites you to relive Korea's majestic history and architectural marvels.