Autumn has finally arrived in Seoul! Leaves are starting to turn into different shades of yellow and brown colours. Not wanting to miss out on the good weather, I decided to get out of my apartment and visit one of the attractions in Seoul – Deoksugung Palace.

Deoksugung Palace is the 1st palace I have visited in Korea (not sure how many there are in total yet, I believe there are at least 4 in Seoul). It is only about 10mins walk from Fraser Place Central Seoul but if you are coming by subway, just alight at City Hall station, exit no. 2 or 3. It is right outside the exit, so there is no way you will miss it.

I find Deoksugung Palace interesting because it is the 1st time that I come across European architectural structures appearing in an Asian historical site. Apparently, the Sekjo-jeon was built as part of the modernization efforts of the Great Han Empire where there was an onslaught of foreign diplomats and missionaries during the early 20th century.

Seokjo-jeon, completed in 1910

As with many other palaces, there is also the daily changing of the guards (except Mon) at 1100hrs, 1400hrs and 1530hrs. This happens right outside the palace gate so you can watch it even if you do not purchase entrance ticket to the palace. FYI, the ticket to the palace is 1,000KRW.

Even on a Sunday, it was not crowded in the palace due to the bigger compound.

Coupled with the sun and cool weather, I really have a relaxed and enjoyable Sunday afternoon. All recharged to tackle the new week ahead!