Explore Deoksugung: Imperial Dragon Motifs and a Rare 2-Story Palace Building

Explore Deoksugung: Imperial Dragon Motifs and a Rare 2-Story Palace Building: Travel / 연합뉴스 / 2025-03-21 10:32:20

▲ Jungwhajeon and Junghwamun of Deoksugung, provided by the Korea Heritage Service (KHS). (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, March 21 -- A special event offering an in-depth look at Deoksugung Palace, a key historical site during the late Joseon period, will take place next month.

The Korea Heritage Service (KHS) announced that from April 4 to April 19, a special guided tour will be available every Friday and Saturday, allowing visitors to explore the interiors of Jungwhajeon Hall, Seogeodang Hall, and Hamnyeongjeon Hall.

Deoksugung served as the imperial palace after King Gojong (r. 1863–1907) proclaimed the Korean Empire and assumed the title of emperor. The palace features a blend of traditional Korean and Western-style architecture.

Participants in the special tour will be guided through three major halls.

▲ View from the second floor of Seogeodang, provided by the Korea Heritage Service (KHS). (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

Jungwhajeon Hall, the main throne hall of Deoksugung, where important imperial ceremonies were held. The ceiling is adorned with dragon motifs, symbolizing the emperor, while the golden doors and windows reflect the grandeur of the past.

Seogeodang Hall, meaning "House of the Former King," was the residence of King Seonjo (r. 1567–1608) upon his return from refuge during the Imjin War. It later became infamous as the place where King Gwanghaegun (r. 1608–1623) confined Queen Dowager Inmok. Notably, it is one of the few two-story wooden buildings in a Korean palace, offering a rare elevated view of the palace grounds.

Hamnyeongjeon Hall, the private quarters of King Gojong, where he passed away in 1919.