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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Changdeokgung Palace Summary
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| Public website: | royal.khs.go.kr |
South Korea – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
South Korean Won (KRW) £1 ≈ ₩1,766 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in South Korea. Credit cards are commonly used in most establishments, including smaller businesses.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not customary in South Korea. However, small tips are appreciated in hotels and for exceptional service. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in South Korea, though drinking in public spaces like parks and streets may attract attention. Alcohol is also served in many convenience stores. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces, but designated smoking areas are available in some outdoor locations. |
| Seollal (January/February) |
Celebrated in January or February with family gatherings |
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| Chuseok (September/October) |
Celebrated in September or October |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 112 (Police), 119 (Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Kakao T, T Map Taxi |
| Other: | South Korea offers a blend of traditional culture and modern technology, with historical sites, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes. |
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Crowdedness:
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Additional notes:
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for Changdeokgung Palace, South Korea
Closed on Mondays; the Secret Garden is visited by timed tour only and sells out fast in spring and autumn
Moonlight tours with limited tickets, mainly spring and autumn
Don't miss
- 🌳 Stroll through the historic Secret Garden pavilions
- 🏯 Admire intricate palace architecture and royal halls
- 🎧 Join a guided tour to learn royal history
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Changdeokgung Palace is one of Korea’s Five Grand Palaces, built in 1405 during the Joseon Dynasty as a secondary royal residence. Over centuries, it became the preferred palace of many kings due to its harmony with the surrounding nature and thoughtful design adhering to pungsu (geomantic) principles.
The palace survived extensive destruction during the Japanese invasions in the 16th century and was fully restored in the early 17th century. In 1997, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its exceptional integration of architecture and landscape.
The highlight is the Secret Garden, a large forested area with pavilions, lotus ponds and centuries-old trees, previously reserved exclusively for royalty. Access to this garden is only allowed with guided tours, which offer insightful narratives about court life and garden design.
Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes due to uneven stone pathways and to be mindful of the weather, as much of the experience is outdoors. During peak seasons, including weekends, the palace may be crowded and booking tickets or tours in advance is recommended.
Knowledge before you go
- Book Secret Garden tour in advance. Mandatory guided access only.
- Visit early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy serene palace grounds with fewer tourists around historic halls.
- Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking on uneven stone paths and sloping terrain throughout the complex.
- UNESCO site built 1405; best-preserved Joseon palace harmonizing architecture with nature's mountains and gardens.
How to travel to Changdeokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace is centrally located in Seoul's Jongno district, easily accessed via the Anguk Station on Seoul Subway Line 3. From Incheon International Airport, travelers can take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station, then transfer to the subway system to reach Anguk Station. The palace is a short walk from the subway exit.
Access summary
- From Incheon Airport: AREX to Seoul Station, Line 3 to Anguk (~70–90 min).
- From central Seoul areas (Myeongdong, Hongdae): Metro to Anguk/Jongno 3-ga (~15–30 min).
- From Seoul Station: Line 1 then Line 3 to Anguk or quick taxi (~15–25 min).
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay near Changdeokgung Palace
Seoul offers a variety of accommodations ranging from traditional hanok guesthouses near the palace to modern hotels in the city center, all easily accessible by public transport.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Packing recommendations for Changdeokgung Palace
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🚰
Reusable water bottle
🧥
Light jacket
☂️
Folding umbrella
🎒
Small rucksack
🧶
Light jumper
🔋
Power bank
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
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To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in the region are around 42% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to KRW) is 8% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is cheaper compared to the past.
Safety information overview
General safety
Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul is considered very safe for visitors. The area has a strong police presence, well-lit pathways and clear signage. Petty theft is rare; just keep an eye on personal belongings. Follow local guidelines, avoid isolated corners after dark.
Accessibility
Changdeokgung Palace offers accessible entrances and ramps, with audio guides in multiple languages. However, many historic corridors remain narrow and uneven, limiting wheelchair use. Visitors should plan ahead, request assistance and consider guided tours for a smoother experience.
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