A trip to Seoul, South Korea, isn't complete without a visit to its ancient residences. Many of the palaces of Seoul are centrally located in the Jongno-gu district of the city, which was the main administrative area of the Joseon era. Most are within walking distance of each other.
While many of these palaces took severe damage during the various wars and occupations during Korea's history, most are now being restored by the government in an effort to preserve and recapture their historic glory.
Changdeok-gung Palace
At over 110 acres in size, Changdeok –gung was home to 13 different Korean kings. In 1463, King Sejo added Biwon Garden (The Secret Garden) onto the complex behind the existing palace structures. Visitors to the palace are required to take a guided tour, offered every half hour in different languages including English. Tours to Biwon Garden are separate, and offered three times daily. Changdeok-gung is closed on Mondays.
Gyeongbok-gung Palace
First built in 1394 and reconstructed in 1867, Gyeongbok-gung Palace was the largest in Seoul's Joseon dynasty. It suffered severe damage during the Japanese occupation, which began in 1911 and ended after World War II, and has been partially restored, with plans for an eventual complete restoration. Visitors should venture all the way to the back of the palace complex to see the Royal Banquet Hall and Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, both set on islands in serene lakes that reflect the structures and the surrounding natural beauty. The palace also houses the National Folk Museum, with exhibits on folk culture and Korean history.
Changgyeong-gung Palace
Originally built as a summer palace in 1104 and burned down in 1592, most of the original buildings of Changgyeong-gung have been restored and opened to visitors. This palace is closed on Tuesdays, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Unhyeon-gung Palace
Unhyeon-gung's small palace was home to crown princes and other members of the Korean royal family. There are only a few buildings remaining on the site, but most of these have been restored and have furnishings and mannequins demonstrating life in the palace during ancient times.
Deoksu-gung Palace
The walled palace complex Deoksu-gung is located in the central business district of Seoul, across from City Hall. There is also an art museum on the grounds of this palace, as well as many examples of Chosun Dynasty architecture. There is a daily reenactment of the Changing of the Royal Guard at the Palace gates of Deoksu-gung.
Jongmyo Shrine
While not technically a palace, Jongnyo Shrine was created as a home for the ancestral spirits of many of Korea's former leaders. Visitors can see the ancestral tablets honoring long-gone royalty and wander the serene grounds. The ancient architecture includes one of the longest buildings in Asia, now home to the royal ancestral tablets. In May, Jongmyo shrine hosts the annual Jongmyo Daeje, where descendants of the royals honor their ancestors in an elaborate ceremony dating back hundreds of years.
The Palaces of Seoul are both fascinating and informative, and should be on the agenda of every visitor to the South Korean capital.
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