Deoksugung Palace (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Deoksugung Palace?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: School-age children pay only 500 KRW, can run on lawns, wear free guard uniforms, and love the drums at the ceremony; lack of playgrounds and some stairs mean parents must supervise closely.
Positives:
- Kids Enter Free: Children under 7 enter the palace at no charge.
- Stroller Rental: Get free strollers at the info desk to ease walking.
Challenges:
- Crowded Ceremonies: Changing of the Guard draws large crowds; lines form early.
- Uneven Paths: Some walkways are gravel; a sturdy stroller or shoes help.
What is Deoksugung Palace?
- A 15th-century royal palace and one of the five grand palaces constructed by the Joseon dynasty in central Seoul
- A complex of hanok-style halls, elegant pavilions and manicured courtyards exemplifying traditional Korean palace architecture
- A distinctive architectural fusion showcased by the Western-style Seokjojeon Hall set amid classical Joseon structures
What is so special about Deoksugung Palace for with kids?
- Free admission for children under 7
- Run and play on spacious palace lawns
- Join the colorful Changing of the Royal Guard
- Try free traditional dress photo sessions
- Sip snacks at the historic Jeonggwanheon café
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A visit lasting 2 to 3 hours is enough for a family with young kids to explore the grounds and join key activities without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Deoksugung Palace
Stone‐wall Road Exploration:
Let kids run along the shaded 1.2 km path and open lawns.
Tip: Visit on weekends to catch street performers along the route.
Changing of the Royal Guard:
Watch the colorful guard ceremony at Daehanmun Gate.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early for front‐row views.
Traditional Dress Photo:
Try the free hanbok or guard uniform photo booth.
Tip: Sign up at the booth before the 11:30, 14:30, or 16:00 session.
Jeonggwanheon Café Snacks:
Taste traditional cookies and tea in the royal pavilion café.
Tip: Order early to avoid queues before the afternoon rush.
Free Guided Tour:
Join the English tour for fun palace stories.
Tip: Meet at the ticket booth at 10:30 or 13:30 for a 1 hour walk.
When is the best time to visit Deoksugung Palace (Seoul, South Korea)?
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along Stone‐wall Road. Autumn brings colorful foliage. Winters can be icy; wear non‐slip shoes and warm jackets.
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Reviews of Deoksugung Palace (Seoul)
Bhanu Pravadanvita
I really liked the art gallery inside. The palace was good, you can chill a whole day and have a picnic, ensure you take some water with you.
Rowena Alvarez
Deoksugung Palace has a beautiful mixture of western and Korean architecture. We went here in the evening so we missed out on the museum. It is smaller compared to the other palaces but I liked how this palace isn't too crowded.
Hso
In my opinion, if you can only visit one palace in Seoul, this is the one you should choose. It’s less crowded compared to others and even has a museum on-site. A really enjoyable experience!
Shawn Pendley
Very nice palace and green space. We didn't see the changing of the guards or see it at night, and I've heard it is beautiful then, but it's lovely on a warm spring day with the sun shining too. Great for kids and families, but we also saw lots of couples strolling the grounds. There is not a great deal of historical information provided here at each building compared to other places -- it's just ...
Mia Vera
Deoksugung Palace wraps history in quiet elegance right in the center of Seoul. The soft stone paths the graceful rooftops and the blend of old and modern architecture make it feel like a gentle pause in time. It is not the biggest palace but it has heart and beauty. A peaceful place to wander reflect and take in the city from a calmer angle..
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Palace admission (2 adults + 1 child) | KRW 2,500 |
| Jeonggwanheon café snacks (4 items) | KRW 24,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 26,500 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Deoksugung Palace
- Beat the Crowd: Start your tour at opening time to enjoy quieter grounds.
- Pack Snacks: Bring water and small snacks for kids to refuel on the lawns.
Map of Deoksugung Palace
Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
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About Deoksugung Palace
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+82 2-771-995110 BEST nearby Activities
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