🏯 Visiting Korean Palaces: Gyeongbokgung vs Changdeokgung

Planning a trip to Seoul? Don’t miss the chance to walk through centuries of Korean history by visiting its royal palaces. Among them, Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung stand out for their grandeur, unique architecture, and cultural significance. In this guide, we’ll compare both palaces and help you decide which one to explore—or why you should visit both!

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace Overview

Gyeongbokgung (경복궁), built in 1395, was the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. It symbolizes national sovereignty and houses the National Folk Museum and National Palace Museum.

📍 Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
🕒 Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
🎟 Admission: 3,000 KRW (Adults)
👘 Hanbok wearers: Free entry!

2. Changdeokgung Palace Overview

Changdeokgung (창덕궁), built in 1405, was the secondary palace but became favored by many kings. It's famous for its harmony with nature and the Secret Garden (Huwon), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

📍 Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
🕒 Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
🎟 Admission: 3,000 KRW (Palace) + 5,000 KRW (Secret Garden)
👘 Hanbok wearers: Free palace entry (not including garden)

3. Key Differences and Which to Choose

Gyeongbokgung: Grand scale, changing of the guard ceremony, museums.
Changdeokgung: Natural scenery, less crowded, peaceful atmosphere.

If you love historical reenactments and iconic photo spots, Gyeongbokgung is your choice. If you’re a fan of tranquil gardens and harmony with nature, go for Changdeokgung—or visit both if you have the time!

4. Nearby Eats You Shouldn’t Miss

After walking around, treat yourself to some tasty Korean food. Near Gyeongbokgung, try Tosokchon Samgyetang (토속촌 삼계탕) for ginseng chicken soup. Near Changdeokgung, don’t miss Yetchatjip (옛찻집), a traditional tea house in Ikseon-dong.

🍲 Tosokchon Samgyetang: 5 Jahamun-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
🍵 Yetchatjip: 11-3, Insadong 10-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

5. 🤔 Did you know?

Gyeongbokgung was destroyed during the Japanese invasions in the 1590s and rebuilt in the 19th century. Despite these efforts, only about 40% of the original structures remain today. Changdeokgung, however, retained more of its original form and remained in use as a royal residence even under Japanese rule.

6. Book a Korean Class with Me

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