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기사입력 : 2025.09.18 18:35
[교육연합신문=이채원 학생기자]
Deoksugung Palace, located in the heart of downtown Seoul and across from Seoul City Hall, is known for its significance as a former royal palace. However, what many people don’t know is that currently the historical location offers special programs that are created from a unique blend of Korean and Western cultures.
Deoksugung Palace has a very rich history that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty. Initially, the site was the residential home of Grand Prince Wolsan. Later, it served as a temporary palace for King Seonjo during the 1592–1598 Imjin War. In 1611, King Gwanghaegun ascended to the throne and briefly resided in Deoksugung Palace, which was called Gyeongungung Palace at the time. Over the following years, however, the main royal residences were located elsewhere and the palace remained largely unused for much of the 17th and 18th centuries.
It was not until the late 19th century that the site regained prominence. Specifically, in 1897, King Gojong proclaimed the establishment of the Korean Empire and designated Gyeongungung, now known as Deoksugung, as the empire’s main palace. This designation marked a significant moment in Korean history, as the palace became the center of imperial administration and a symbol of Korea’s efforts to modernize in the face of internal reform and external pressures.
This palace became a symbol of modernization in Korea, featuring major structures such as Junghwajeon Hall and Western-style buildings including Dondeokjeon Hall, Jeonggwanheon, and Seokjojeon Hall. An interesting yet tragic fact is that the palace was renamed Deoksugung in 1907, which means “Palace of Virtuous Longevity.” When Korea was colonized by Japan in 1910, however, Emperor Gojong was forced to abdicate and lived in the palace until his death in 1919.
During the Japanese colonization, Deoksugung went through numerous changes. Despite these events, the palace still remains a historic site reflecting Korean history with a mix of architectural styles from Korea and Western countries. One instance of this mixture of cultures is Seokjojeon Hall, which includes numerous examples of a more Westernized architectural style.
In the present day, Deoksugung Palace offers numerous special night experiences that include guided historical tours, musical performances, and cafes. One can easily be guided through the palace grounds and learn about the imperial family and Korean history, or enjoy the terrace cafe experience with a musical performance about Emperor Gojong.
The cultural program “Seokjojeon at Night” is once again welcoming visitors this fall at Deoksugung Palace. Organized by the Korea Heritage Agency, the spring session ran from April 8 to May 25, and the autumn session continues through September 10 to October 26 this year.
The event offers rare evening access to Seokjojeon Hall, normally closed at night. Participants join a palace walk led by a court lady, tour the hall with a docent, and enjoy Gabae, coffee once favored by Emperor Gojong, on the terrace overlooking the palace nightscape. The evening also includes a musical set in the Korean Empire era and photo opportunities with vintage accessories. Though tickets are allocated by lottery and competition is fierce, the chance to experience this rare autumn evening at Seokjojeon makes the effort worthwhile.
Overall, this heritage site features numerous references to significant historical events while also including fun events for the public to engage with. The palace grounds are beautiful, especially at night, and so it is highly recommended to go visit this location to simply stroll around or partake in one of the many activities offered.
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