Of the five royal palaces in Seoul, South Korea, one of the most beautiful and historically important is Changdeokgung Palace, the “Palace of Illustrious Virtue.” A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s known for its tranquil garden and traditional Korean architecture and design that incorporate the surrounding landscape.

Constructed in 1405 during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), the 110-acre palace complex includes administrative offices, public audience buildings, royal residences and an expansive landscaped Biwon, or Secret Garden, to the rear of the complex.

Changdeokgung Palace became the royal family’s primary residence and political seat in the 1600s. It remained in continual use throughout the Joseon Dynasty, the Korean Empire, Japanese occupation and into the mid-20th century, serving as the backdrop for the rise and fall of the imperial dynasty.

Although many structures have been rebuilt over the centuries, they retain their original layout and design, making the complex one of the best-preserved examples of Korean palace architecture.

A notable feature of Changdeokgung Palace is its layout and design, which reflect the principles of pungsu, the Korean interpretation of feng shui.

This design philosophy results in a harmonious integration of the palace buildings with the landscape, incorporating the natural topography and balancing the forested mountain terrain to the rear of the complex with the Geumcheon River in the front.

The palace layout also adheres to the Neo-Confucian principles and aesthetics dominant during the Joseon era, creating an orderly, tranquil atmosphere with elegant architecture that retains a modest simplicity. Confucian architectural principles also emphasize harmony between man and nature, the preservation of the natural landscape and the separation of men and women into different living quarters.

Notable structures at Changdeokgung Palace include Injeong Hall, the throne room where state ceremonies and official audiences took place…

…and the nearby Seonjeongjeon Hall, once used as the king’s office. Of note is the painted ceiling of the main room, a striking example of dancheong (“red and blue”), the vibrant decorative painting on traditional Korean wooden buildings.

Different residential structures in the compound, such as Huijeongdang Hall, display traditional intricate wood carvings and green-and-vermillion patterned dancheong, a reflection of the craftsmanship and style of the late Joseon Dynasty.

The Nakseonjae Complex, a private area for the royal family, was constructed in the 19th century and favors a more simplistic, austere style. In contrast to the other palace structures, it’s the only one without the iconic dancheong paint. 

Formerly the king’s library and living quarters for various members of the royal family, the compound includes a tranquil garden and scenic pavilion that the family used until the 1980s.

The Biwon, or Secret Garden, is a highlight of Changdeokgung Palace. Originally a private retreat for the royal family, the 78-acre garden reflects Korean design principles of tranquility, simplicity, and harmony.

Landscaped lawns, ponds, flowers, trees, and pavilions create a picturesque oasis in the city, encouraging a tranquil contemplation of the natural world.

During the summer, the Secret Garden hosts various cultural events, such as performances of traditional Korean dance and music; in autumn, it’s a beautiful place to see fall foliage in Seoul.

For travelers on our private South Korea tours, Artisans of Leisure arranges private tours of the palace complex with an expert local guide, great for anyone interested in architecture, history and gardens.

Contact Artisans of Leisure to begin planning a private South Korea tour featuring the cultural highlights of Seoul, including the Joseon-era palaces such as Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden.