Changing of the Royal Guard

Changing of the Royal Guard Ceremony Begins

Down the street from the Lotte hotel in Seoul is one of the most interesting old Korean Palaces, the Deoksugung Palace. It’s really A bit of historical drama mixes with Seoul’s modernity each day in downtown Seoul with the Changing of the Royal Guards at Deoksugung Palace.  

Group playing Trumpets

The Guard Changing Ceremony, with colorful period costumes and a swirl of music, royal flags and a giant drum, is reenacted three times a day at 11:00, 14:00 and 15:30. in front of Daehanmun Gate at The Deoksugung Palace. The performance lasts about 30 minutes and attendance is free. 

Exchanged Palace Key is in Wooden Box on Red Table

Royal Guard Soldiers

During the Joseon era, there was a military unit stationed at the royal palace  called the Sumungun. It was responsible for opening and closing the palace gates, as well as guarding and patrolling the area around the gate. The Ceremony is a re-enactment of those days. It also shows the exchange of palace keys.

Giant Drum is Hit Three Times During Ceremony

Deoksugung is centrally located by Seoul City Hall in a large City Square next to the modern City Hall. This was the first of two palaces we visited. Enjoyed this one much better than Gyeongbokgung. The Palace entrance price was only KRW 1,000 ($1.00 USD), the grounds were beautiful, and as an extra benefit there’s the changing of the Royal Guards. We really enjoyed this place. Deoksugung Palace and Changing of the Royal Guards are must-see's in downtown Seoul.

Highly recommended!

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