Seokjojeon

Myeong-dong & Jung-gu


A good example of Deoksugung's potpourri of contrasting architectural styles, the grand neoclassical-style Seokjojeon was designed by British architect GR Harding and completed in 1910. Today it houses the Daehan Empire History Museum, which displays the mansion's opulent interior. You can only visit as part of a 45-minute tour, best booked online (though it's not in English), or otherwise chance your luck upon arrival; tours depart approximately every half-hour until 4.30pm.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Myeong-dong & Jung-gu attractions

1. Daehan Empire History Museum

The Daehan Empire History Museum, with its opulent lobby, dining rooms and bedrooms, is in the neoclassical-style Seokjojeon. Visiting is only possible by…

2. MMCA Deoksugung

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This branch of MMCA is within a grand colonial building inside the Deoksugung complex. It has several galleries exhibiting its permanent modern-art…

3. Junghwajeon

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Serving as Deoksugung’s main throne hall, Junghwajeon was used for ceremonial occasions such as coronations, and is adorned with dragons and golden window…

4. Deoksugung

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One of Seoul's five grand palaces built during the Joseon dynasty, Deoksugung (meaning Palace of Virtuous Longevity) is the only one you can visit in the…

5. Jeonggwanheon

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Within the Deoksugung complex, the interesting fusion-style pavilion Jeonggwanheon was designed by Russian architect Aleksey Seredin-Sabatin as a place…

6. Hamnyeongjeon

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A part of Deoksugung, this building served as Emperor Gojong’s living quarters.

7. Seoul Museum of Art

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Hosting world-class exhibitions that are always worth a visit, SEMA has ultramodern, bright galleries inside the handsome brick-and-stone facade of the…

8. Deoksugung Stone Wall Road

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Outside to the left of Deoksugung's main gate, the palace's stone southern wall creates a curved path shaded by 130 trees with benches where locals stop…