- Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Phone: +82 (2) 771-99-51
- Area: 61500 sq. M. m
- Working hours: every day, except Monday, from 09:00 to 21:00
In the capital of South Korea there is a complex called "5 large palaces". The smallest of them is the castle of Tokugun (Tŏksugung or Deoksugung Palace). It stands out from the rest of its European style (all the rest have traditional Korean architecture). This is the former residence of members of the royal family of the Joseon Dynasty, which is a popular tourist destination.
History of construction
Currently, the Tokugung Palace in Seoul has beautiful architecture, has a quiet and calm atmosphere, but in the old days the structure was directly connected with the sad days for the country. The building was built for Prince Volsan (the elder brother of the reigning king) in the 15th century, so its dimensions are small.
The royal family moved here during the Japanese-Korean Imjin war. The first ruler who settled in the building was called van Songjo Joseon. In 1618, the castle was renamed Sogunn (Western Palace) and began to be used as a secondary residence.
In 1897, the building was inhabited by the emperor Kojon, who called the construction of the Kengungun. He moved here, hiding from the Japanese, and ruled the country from the Russian embassy. The next emperor named Sunjon returned sightseeing to the name of Toksugun.
Description of the palace
Initially, the complex consisted of 180 rooms and buildings, but to this day only 12 buildings have been preserved. All buildings were located on a clear plan, had a specific purpose and a proper name. The most famous of them are:
- Tehannunzhong is a smart pavilion located at the entrance. Behind him is the wide bridge of Kymcheon, along which a large royal carriage passed calmly.
- Chikchodan is a building intended for coronations. On the front facade of the pavilion there is an inscription which, after coming to power in 1905, was personally made by the emperor named Konjong.
- Hamneongjeon is a residential complex, equipped as a bedchamber for the king (east side), queen and children (western part of the building).
- Popcion Chungwajjong is a historical building where you can get acquainted with the way of life and everyday life of the imperial family.
- Chongwanhon - the premise was built in 1900 and was intended for tea ceremonies and entertainment of the monarch and courtiers. The Russian architect Seredin-Sabatin was engaged in the design of the pavilion.
- Sokchonjong - in the building erected in 1910, equipped with a Japanese art gallery. In May 1946, the building hosted Russian-American negotiations. Today, you can see a collection of palace treasures (the eastern wing) and a branch of the National Center dedicated to the contemporary art of the country (the western side).
The name of the palace Tokugung is translated as "virtuous longevity". Its area covers an area of 61,500 sq. Km. This architectural monument is surrounded by a powerful wall, paved with neat stone paths and planted with a picturesque garden.
Features of visit
Tokugun is included in the list of national attractions under №124. This is the only palace in the capital, which is not closed after 18:00 hours, so for walks here come not only tourists, but also locals. The castle works every day, except Monday, from 09:00 until 21:00.
The cost of the ticket together with the guide (he speaks English and Korean) is $ 2, for pensioners and children under 6, admission is free. Groups of 10 people have discounts.
How to get there?
Toksugun Palace is located in the center of Seoul , it is most convenient to get there by metro on the 1st or 2nd line. The station is called Sichon, exit # 2. From the bus stop to the castle you will have to walk for 5 minutes.