Explore Seoul in Summer with a Free Pass to 5 Grand Palaces

The area around Samcheong-dong, situated between Gyeongbokgung and Changgyeonggung, was historically a gathering place for the yangban nobility. It is one of the most traditionally Korean areas, lined with centuries-old hanok houses and featuring refined private museums and tea houses waiting to be explored. Gyeongbokgung, the main palace constructed by King Taejo of the Joseon Dynasty, was largely destroyed during the Japanese invasions of Korea in 1592 (the Imjin War). Reconstruction began only in 1865. Starting in May, apart from the Huwon (rear garden), which is open only at scheduled times and requires a guided tour, the entire Changdeokgung Palace area will be open for self-guided visits.

Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Changdeokgung served as a detached palace of Gyeongbokgung. Its classic Korean architectural style and the secret garden (Huwon) with its traditional landscaping possess an indescribable charm, and it is also the best-preserved palace among those built during the Joseon period. To protect its cultural heritage and prevent visitors from getting lost, Changdeokgung has always required guided tours. However, starting this May, visitors can enter freely without a guide. That said, certain rear areas of the palace such as the Buyongjeong Pavilion by the Yuhaeng-gil Stream and the Yeongyeongdang Hall still require an additional fee and must be visited with a guide.

Deoksugung, beloved by locals. Image provided by Korea Tourism Organization

Originally named Suganggung, Changgyeonggung stands out from other Joseon-era palaces due to its eastward-facing main hall, Myeongjeongjeon, instead of the typical southward orientation — a defining feature. Stone rank markers flank the front of the main hall. Though smaller in scale compared to other royal palaces, Deoksugung’s central location in downtown Seoul and lush surroundings have made it a favorite recreational park for citizens. Jongmyo, built by King Taejo of the Joseon Dynasty after pacifying Seoul, is not only the resting place of the spirits of Joseon kings and queens but also the venue for important royal ancestral rites. Starting in May, Jongmyo will switch from free self-guided visits to timed entry with guided tours. However, it remains open for free self-guided visits on Saturdays.

The free pass is priced at 10,000 KRW and is valid for one month. For detailed ticket information, contact the Seoul Tourism Hotline at 02-1330 or visit the Korea Tourism Organization website at big5chinese.visitkorea.or.kr/cht/index.kto.


Guided Tours at Changdeokgung


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