Changdeokgung’s Main Gate to Undergo Renovations Starting November 11

▲ This image, provided by the royal palaces and tombs division of the state-run National Heritage Administration, shows Changdeokgung Palace’s Donhwamun, Korea’s oldest wooden palace gate. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, Oct. 28 (Yonhap) -- Changdeokgung Palace’s Donhwamun, Korea’s oldest wooden palace gate, will close temporarily for renovations starting on November 11, according to the National Heritage Administration.

During the renovation process, the main entrance for visitors will shift from Donhwamun to Geumhomun, a smaller western gate.

The palace announced plans to shut Donhwamun on November 12 to begin repair work, with Geumhomun serving as the primary entry for visitors during the renovation period.

▲ This image, provided by the royal palaces and tombs division of the state-run National Heritage Administration, shows the fall scenery of Changdeokgung Palace of the Joseon period. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

Due to Geumhomun’s smaller size—one bay at the front compared to Donhwamun’s five—entry and exit modifications are under review to reduce congestion, particularly during weekends and holidays.

Built in 1412, Donhwamun carries a legacy as a gate through which royalty once passed. Though destroyed during the Japanese invasions, it was restored in 1609 and designated a treasure in 1963. Regular monitoring from 2020 to 2022 revealed significant wear, earning it an “E” grade and prompting urgent restoration measures, including disassembling and repairing some structural components over the next few years.

▲ This image, provided by the royal palaces and tombs division of the state-run National Heritage Administration, shows the map of Changdeokgung Palace of the Joseon period. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

The restoration aims to preserve this treasured landmark for future generations, with completion projected by 2026.

▲ This image, provided by the royal palaces and tombs division of the state-run National Heritage Administration, notices the renovation procedure of the Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)