Stepping outside, I noticed everyone bundled up in winter clothing. The recent unpredictable weather has made it impossible to transition wardrobes smoothly. Sadly, my favorite season, autumn, seems to have vanished.

Instead of sleeping in on a weekend, I found myself up early and on the move, all because of an article I read the night before. It announced that the Jeongdong Observatory (Jeongdong, Seoul) had reopened after years of closure.

Upon arrival, I saw people going in and out of the building, a clear sign that the observatory was open.

Located on the 13th floor of the Seosomun Building, Jeongdong Observatory is just a short walk from Deoksugung Palace’s Daehanmun Gate.

Open on weekends only (Saturday & Sunday)
Operating hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Admission: FREE

Getting to the 13th floor is simple, just follow the posted signs carefully.

I had heard that lines can be quite long when the observatory first opens in the morning. However, today, it wasn’t nearly as crowded as I expected. Perhaps not many people are aware of the reopening yet.

 

Deoksugung Palace

From above, the view of Deoksugung Palace was breathtaking.

 

Seokjojeon (left) / Junghwajeon (right)

​You can see Junghwajeon, which is Deoksugung Palace's main throne hall, and Seokjojeon, which was the first palace built in the Western style.

 

Dondeokjeon

You can see Dondeokjeon behind Seokjojeon. It has just finished renovation and reopened.​

 

Hamnyeongjeon

Hamnyeongjeon, the residence of King Gojong, is right next to it. 

 

Seoul city hall

The location and view of this observatory are outstanding. And the fact that admission is free makes it even more remarkable.

If you prefer a quieter experience, visit before lunchtime. Around noon, the observatory starts to fill up with visitors.

With its stunning panoramic views, affordable yet delicious coffee, and peaceful atmosphere, Jeongdong Observatory is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

I can already see myself returning more often. A hidden gem like this deserves to be enjoyed and appreciated.

If you’re in Seoul, don’t miss the chance to visit Jeongdong Observatory, one of the city’s must-see attractions!

 

Address : 15 Deoksugung-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul OPEN GOOGLE MAP

Operation Hours : Saturday-Sunday : 09:00 - 17:30

Instagram : Check out more photos

 

Source : https://blog.naver.com/dlsen0115/223261840813

Writer : dlsen0115

Special thanks to dlsen0115

 

jeongdong observatory seoul