Download the app and start listening
GPS-guided audio guide while you walk.
About this place
Practical information
Points included in this audio guide
Injeongjeon Throne Hall
Injeongjeon, meaning "Hall of Benevolent Government," is the principal throne hall of Changdeokgung Palace and one of South Korea's National Treasures. This wooden structure rises two storeys above an elevated stone platform and hosted the most ceremonial occasions of the Joseon dynasty court—from royal coronations to receptions for foreign dignitaries. Its architecture and historical significance make it essential to visit when exploring Seoul's palaces.
Salón Seonjeongjeon
Seonjeongjeon Hall served as the king's working quarters and council chamber within Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul. The monarch convened daily here with senior officials to deliberate state matters. This single-storey structure features an open interior design with minimal walls between its supporting columns, creating a spacious and uncluttered atmosphere. What sets it apart is its distinctive blue-tiled roof—the only building in Changdeokgung Palace to retain this striking feature, making it immediately recognisable when you visit.
Salón Huijeongdang
Huijeongdang Hall was the former royal residence and office of the king within Changdeokgung Palace, positioned between the council chamber Seonjeongjeon and the queen's residence Daejojeon. Its name, rendered in Chinese characters, translates as "bringing virtuous governance". The building is remarkable for its architectural contrast: a traditional Korean exterior concealing an interior decorated entirely in early 20th-century Western style. What to see here is this striking fusion of two distinct design traditions, making it a fascinating testament to Korea's modernisation period.
Daejojeon Hall
The Daejojeon Hall served as the official residence of the queen within Changdeokgung Palace, an extensive complex that also housed separate quarters for the king. The hall was regularly used for royal banquets. At its centre stood the main living area, flanked by two bedrooms—the eastern chamber for the king and the western for the queen—with smaller rooms for ladies-in-waiting arranged along the sides and rear of each bedroom.
Nakseonjae Complex
Nakseonjae is a residential complex situated at the south-eastern edge of Changdeokgung Palace, adjoining the walls of Changgyeonggung Palace. The buildings are distinguished by their deliberately understated architectural style, modelled after aristocratic residences of the period. This modest approach sets Nakseonjae apart visually from the rest of the palace complex and offers insight into the living quarters of the royal household during the Joseon dynasty.
Secret Garden (Biwon / Huwon)
The Secret Garden (Biwon or Huwon) is the private rear garden of Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul, situated to the north of the main complex and accessible only by official guided tour. Covering approximately 60% of the palace grounds, it represents an exceptional example of traditional Korean landscape design. The garden naturally follows the site's original topography, featuring rolling hills, valleys, ponds and streams that showcase masterful integration with the natural terrain.
Juhamnu Pavilion and Buyongji Pond
The Buyongji pond and Juhamnu pavilion form the most celebrated focal point of Changdeokgung's Secret Garden. The square pond features a circular island at its centre, surrounded by several pavilions that create a striking harmony between architecture and nature. What to see here reflects centuries-old Korean garden design principles, with carefully positioned structures that frame views of the water and landscaping. This ensemble is one of Seoul's finest examples of traditional architectural integration with natural elements.
Gwolnaegaksa Complex (Government Offices)
The Gwolnaegaksa Complex formed the government offices within Changdeokgung Palace, handling matters relating to the royal household. Split by the Geumcheon stream, the eastern section contained the royal infirmary, the office of royal advisers, and the publications bureau. The western side housed the royal library and the hall where royal decrees were issued. The tight clustering of buildings across this compact space creates a distinctly maze-like atmosphere that rewards careful exploration.
Royal Shrine of Seonwonjeon
Seonwonjeon is the royal sanctuary within Changdeokgung Palace, positioned behind the Gwolnaegaksa office complex and to the left of the Injeongjeon throne hall. Serving a similar purpose to Jongmyo Shrine, this site housed portraits of deceased Joseon dynasty kings and was used for commemorative rites and funeral ceremonies. It remains an important example of royal Joseon religious practice and architectural design.
- 1.Injeongjeon Throne Hall
- 2.Salón Seonjeongjeon
- 3.Salón Huijeongdang
- 4.Daejojeon Hall
- 5.Nakseonjae Complex
- 6.Secret Garden (Biwon / Huwon)
- 7.Juhamnu Pavilion and Buyongji Pond
- 8.Gwolnaegaksa Complex (Government Offices)
- 9.Royal Shrine of Seonwonjeon
Kids audio available
Kids version available with adapted and fun language for the little ones (22 min)
Prefer to discover on the go?
Buy photo credits and take a photo of any monument. Our AI will recognize it and you'll receive the audio guide instantly.
Share with your family
Share your audio guides with your family using a single access code.
Learn how it worksDownload Guipock and start exploring
Audio guides narrated while you walk. Available on the App Store.
