Deoksugung Palace Complete Guide 2026

Updated: June 2026 · Korea Heritage Service official data

Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁) is unique among Seoul's palaces — it's the only one where traditional Korean architecture coexists with Western-style buildings. Originally a royal residence during the Joseon dynasty, it became the imperial palace of Emperor Gojong in 1897. The palace is famous for its 900-meter stone wall road, the neoclassical Seokjojeon Hall, and extended evening hours until 9 PM.

Ticket Prices & Admission

Adults: ₩1,000 · Youth (7–18): ₩500 · Children under 7 & Seniors 65+: Free
The cheapest palace admission in Seoul — exceptional value for the experience.

Opening Hours — Open Until 9 PM

Mar–Oct: 09:00–21:00 (last entry 20:00)
Nov–Feb: 09:00–20:00 (last entry 19:00)
Closed: Every Monday (not Tuesday like other palaces!)

Deoksugung is the only Seoul palace open until 9 PM, making it perfect for evening visits. The palace illuminated at night, combined with the stone wall road at sunset, creates an unforgettable atmosphere.

How to Get There

Subway: Line 1/2 City Hall Station (Exit 12) — 2 min walk. Line 3 Gwanghwamun Station (Exit 7) — 5 min walk.

Bus: Routes 100, 401, 402, 600 stop at City Hall.

Must-See Buildings & Highlights

Deoksugung uniquely blends East and West. Seokjojeon (석조전), a Western-style granite building, served as the state council hall. Junghwajeon (중화전) is the traditional throne hall. Jeukjodang (즉조당) is where Emperor Gojong proclaimed the Korean Empire. The modern National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) branch is also within the palace grounds.

Daehanmun Gate

대한문의 원래 이름은 대안문(大安門)으로 ‘나라가 편안하고 국민을 편안하게 하라’는 기원을 담은 이름입니다....

Geumcheongyo Bridge

금천교(錦川橋)는 각 궁궐마다 있는 명당수인 금천을 건너는 다리로 임금이 머무는 궁궐의 신성한 영역을 외부와...

Gwollaegaksa Site

궐내각사(闕內各司)는 왕실의 살림을 맡은 관원들이 근무한 관청입니다. 왕실 시중과 궁궐의 시설 관리를 맡는 ...

Junghwamun Gate

덕수궁의 정전인 중화전으로 들어가는 정문이자, 삼조삼문의 내문에 해당됩니다. 1902년 중층 건물로 세워졌으...

Junghwajeon Hall

중화전(中和殿)은 덕수궁에서 가장 중요한 역할을 했던 법전입니다. 각 궁궐에는 외전, 내전, 동궁, 후원, ...

Gwangmyeongmun Gate

광명문은 대한제국의 황제, 고종이 기거하던 함녕전으로 들어가는 문이다. 1919년 고종이 함녕전에서 승하한 ...

Explore all buildings at Deoksugung →

The Stone Wall Road (돌담길)

The Deoksugung Stone Wall Road (덕수궁 돌담길) stretches 900 meters along the palace's western perimeter. Lined with trees and period street lamps, it's one of Seoul's most beloved walking routes. At sunset, the warm light filtering through the trees creates a romantic atmosphere that has made this path a favorite for couples and photographers alike.

The path connects from City Hall Station toward Gwanghwamun, passing the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA Deoksugung) along the way.

Visitor Tips

Visit at sunset to experience both daytime and illuminated evening views
Thursday evenings often feature free guided tours — check the official website
The MMCA branch inside the palace grounds is included with palace admission
The stone wall road is especially photogenic in autumn when leaves change color
Free admission with hanbok — rental shops are available near City Hall Station

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Deoksugung Palace opening hours?

09:00–21:00 (summer, Mar–Oct). 09:00–20:00 (winter, Nov–Feb). Closed Mondays. The palace is uniquely open until 9 PM, making it ideal for evening visits.

How much is the Deoksugung ticket?

Adults: ₩1,000. Youth (7–18): ₩500. Free for children under 7 and seniors 65+. One of the cheapest palace admissions in Seoul.

What is the Deoksugung Stone Wall Road?

The Deoksugung Stone Wall Road (덕수궁 돌담길) is a picturesque 900-meter path along the palace's western wall, one of the most romantic walking routes in Seoul, especially beautiful at sunset.

Can I visit Deoksugung at night?

Yes, Deoksugung is the only palace open until 9 PM. The illuminated palace and stone wall road at dusk create a magical atmosphere. Thursday evenings sometimes feature free guided tours.