Wednesday, October 09, 2013

Seoul - Day 4 Deoksugung Palace


Deoksugung is a walled compound of palaces in Seoul that was inhabited by various Korean royalties until the colonial period around the turn of the 20th century. It is one of the "Five Grand Palaces" built by the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. The buildings are of varying construction, including some of wood, painted wood, and stucco. Some buildings were built in Western style - a definite contrast to the traditional Korean style.

In addition to the traditional palace buildings, there are also forested gardens, a statue of King Sejong the Great and the National Museum of Art, which holds special exhibitions. The palace is located near the City Hall Station - voted as one of the top worse architectural buildings in Seoul. Deoksugung was heavily destroyed during the colonial period of Korea. Currently only one third of the structures that were standing before the occupation, remain.


Main Entrance


Royal Guards


Stark contract in structures


Western-style addition to Palace



Royal Gate


King's Throne Room


Throne Room


Throne Room

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