{"id":1635,"date":"2026-07-22T20:34:56","date_gmt":"2026-07-22T11:34:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/param-works.com\/korea-palaces\/?p=1635"},"modified":"2026-07-31T11:05:17","modified_gmt":"2026-07-31T02:05:17","slug":"four-royal-palaces-guide_en","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/param-works.com\/korea-palaces\/en\/2026\/07\/22\/four-royal-palaces-guide_en\/","title":{"rendered":"Comparing Seoul\u2019s Four Major Palaces: Which Palace Should You Visit?"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Seoul\u2019s royal palaces are popular attractions where visitors can experience the history and culture of the Joseon Dynasty.<\/p>\n

The city has four major palaces\u2014Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, and Changgyeonggung\u2014each with its own distinctive character.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is the difference between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung?\u201d
\u201cWhich palace is best for a first-time visitor?\u201d
\u201cWhich palace is easy to include in a short itinerary?\u201d<\/p>\n

If you are wondering which one to visit, this guide compares the main features and highlights of Seoul\u2019s four major palaces and helps you choose the palace that best suits your interests.<\/p>\n

What Is the Difference Between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung?<\/h2>\n

Many visitors find it difficult to choose between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung.<\/p>\n

Gyeongbokgung was the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty.<\/strong>
Its spacious grounds and grand royal buildings make it an excellent choice for first-time visitors.<\/p>\n

Changdeokgung, on the other hand, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site designed in harmony with the natural landscape.<\/strong>
Its architecture, wooded grounds, and Secret Garden are its greatest attractions.<\/p>\n

Choose Gyeongbokgung if you want to experience the grandeur of a traditional royal palace. Choose Changdeokgung if you are more interested in gardens, nature, and architecture that blends into the surrounding landscape.<\/p>\n

Let\u2019s take a closer look at the unique features of each palace.<\/p>\n

Gyeongbokgung Palace<\/h2>\n

Features<\/h3>\n

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung was the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty.<\/p>\n

It is the largest of Seoul\u2019s four major palaces, with spacious grounds, ceremonial halls, pavilions, and imposing gates.<\/p>\n

Recommended for<\/h3>\n

First-time visitors to a Korean palace and anyone who wants to explore representative examples of Joseon royal architecture.<\/p>\n

Main highlights<\/h3>\n