Seokjojeon (Deoksugung Palace)

I often visit Deoksugung Palace for a walk and have admired Seokjojeon Hall only from the outside, but this time, I finally joined a guided tour that allows visitors to see the interior.

Anyone can make a reservation online in advance — spots are confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis. Foreign tourists can also book tickets directly on-site.

The path leading to Seokjojeon was lined with blooming flowers, and as I walked deeper into the palace grounds, I could feel the gentle scent of spring all around.

Seokjojeon

The guided tour begins exactly at the reserved time. Visitors must remove their shoes and change into indoor slippers before entering. Since the group moves together with the guide, it’s important to arrive on time to follow the schedule.

The first space we encountered inside Seokjojeon was the Central Lobby, a grand hall that once served as a royal reception area.

Over the years, Seokjojeon underwent many transformations and lost much of its original form, but fortunately, it has been meticulously restored to its historical appearance based on preserved records.

The exterior of Seokjojeon is built in a neoclassical style reminiscent of ancient Greek and Roman temples. It emphasizes symmetry, proportion, and grandeur — designed by a British architect in the same style as Buckingham Palace. The interior follows the same aesthetic, evoking the elegance of a European royal palace.

This was the waiting room for distinguished guests before meeting the Emperor. During that time, visitors were served Western-style refreshments such as biscuits and champagne. The room still retains its elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, reflecting the prestige of the royal court.

Seokjojeon was completed in 1910, just three months after the fall of the Korean Empire.
Although it was intended to symbolize the dignity of the royal family, Emperor Gojong never resided there, citing discomfort.

Instead, it was used for receptions and formal banquets for distinguished guests.
During the Japanese occupation in 1933, it was converted into an art museum, which led to major alterations of its interior.

Later, it served as a meeting venue for the UN Korean Commission, the National Museum, and other government offices. After a full restoration between 2009 and 2014, it was reopened as the Deoksugung Palace Daehan Empire History Museum.

The most magnificent space inside Seokjojeon is the Audience Chamber. Lavishly decorated with imported chandeliers, mirrors, and carpets, the room embodies the grandeur and dignity of the Korean Empire’s royal court.

Standing there, I could almost imagine Emperor Gojong receiving foreign envoys a century ago; it was a moving moment.

One of the highlights of joining the Seokjojeon guided tour was the brief access to the second-floor terrace, a privilege available only to tour participants.

From there, you can take beautiful photos with the fountain garden and art museum as a backdrop. Though the moment was short, the view was unforgettable.

This was the Grand Dining Room, where royal banquets were held after official events.
It was fascinating to see such a lavish, European-style dining hall existing in Korea a century ago, complete with crystal chandeliers, marble walls, and a grand table that spoke of royal elegance.

The 45-minute guided tour of Seokjojeon went by in the blink of an eye. As we moved through each room listening to the guide’s explanations,

I felt deeply connected to the history and stories behind the architecture. With its blend of Western aesthetics and royal dignity, Seokjojeon felt like a true work of art. It was a meaningful experience, almost like stepping back in time in the heart of Seoul.