Changdeokgung Palace Complex [UNESCO World Heritage Site]

창덕궁과 후원 [유네스코 세계유산] · Seoul · Palaces & heritage

Changdeokgung Palace was the second royal villa built following the construction of Gyeongbokgung Palace in 1405. It was the principal palace for many kings of the Joseon dynasty, and is the most well-preserved of the five remaining royal Joseon palaces. The palace grounds are comprised of a public palace area, a royal family residence building, and the rear garden. Known as a place of rest for the kings, the rear garden boasts a gigantic tree that is over 300 years old, a small pond and a pavilion. The palace gained importance starting from the time of Seongjong, the 9th king of Joseon, when a number of kings began using it as a place of residence. Unfortunately, the palace was burned down by angry citizens in 1592 when the royal family fled their abode during the Imjin War. Thanks to Gwanghaegun, the palace was restored in 1611. Even today, it houses a number of cultural treasures, such as Injeongjeon Hall, Daejojeon Hall, Seonjeongjeon Hall, and Nakseonjae Hall. Changdeokgung Palace’s garden behind the inner hall, called the "Secret Garden," was constructed during the reign of King Taejong and served as a rest area for the royal family members. The garden had formerly been called Bugwon and Geumwon, but was renamed Biwon Garden, or Secret Garden, after King Gojong came into power. The garden was kept as natural as possible and was touched by human hands only when absolutely necessary. Buyongjeong Pavilion, Buyongji Pond, Juhamnu Pavilion, Eosumun Gate, Yeonghwadang Hall, Bullomun Gate, Aeryeonjeong Pavilion, and Yeongyeongdang Hall are some of the many attractions that occupy the garden. The most beautiful time to see the garden is during the fall when the autumn foliage is at its peak and the leaves have just started to fall. Though it has been treasured by Koreans for centuries, Changdeokgung Palace and its complex was recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site by the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Committee in December of 1997 during the committee meeting in Naples, Italy.

Getting there

From Korea Tourism Organization open data. Opening hours and admission can change — check the official page before you go.

On nearby while you're here

Events run on fixed dates — check these against your own trip. Trip Planner shows everything on for the days you are in Korea.

• Sep 27, 2026Jo Hui-yeong Gayageum Recital: Melodies of Light II · right next door
• Sep 30, 2026Gyeonggi Sinawi: For the Haegeum Melody · right next door
• Sep 24, 2026 – Oct 4, 2026Changgyeonggung Palace Night Banquet · 600 m walk
• Apr 28, 2026 – Aug 29, 2027Andong Byeolgung: Layers of Time · 600 m walk

Within walking distance

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Theatre Changdeokgung

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Changdeokgung Injeongmun Gate

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Hyangnamu Tree in Changdeokgung Palace

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Unhyeongung Royal Residence

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Tteok Museum

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Nakseonjae Hall

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Bukchon Hanok Village

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Bukchon Cultural Center