Gyeonghuigung is Seoul’s silent palace. Smaller in size and historical significance when compared to the four main palaces in Seoul (Gyeongbokgung, Changgyeonggung, Changdeokgung, and Deoksugung), this palace is often overlooked by tourists and Koreans alike and is frequently omitted from travel guides. This does not however mean that you should avoid visiting. Gyeonghuigung is actually a quite impressive palace in its own right with a unique layout and beautiful structures. The very fact that few people visit here make it a perfect spot for avoiding the large crowds and capturing some excellent photos without hundreds of people in the foreground. The palace also has its own unique history as it was constructed in 1623 as a detached royal palace where Joseon kings would often stay overnight when making excursions to other parts of Hanseong, the former name for Seoul.
Originally known as Gyeongdeokgung, this palace was renamed Gyeonghuigung in 1760. Like many palaces in Korea, this one fell victim to destruction at the hands of the Japanese during their occupation of Korea and the palace was reduced to a fraction of its original size. Thankfully though, the main gate, Heunghwamun, was spared destruction and the original gate still marks the entrance to this palace. Additionally, the Korean government has since restored many of the major structures in recent years including the main hall, Sungjeongjeon. Admission to this palace is free of charge and you may even be treated to a Taekwondo demonstration as some of the national competition teams occasionally train, photograph, and demonstrate here.
Gyeonghuigung is behind the Seoul Museum of history and can be reached via Exit 7 of Gwanghwamun Station or Exit 4 of Seodaemun Station, both on Line 5 of the subway.
References:
Koehler, R. (2012, March). Seoul Selection Guides: Korea. Seoul: Seoul Selections.
The Seoul Guide, http://www.theseoulguide.com/sights/palaces/gyeonghuigung-palace/
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