Ultimate Guide to Booking Changdeokgung Palace Tickets (Updated for 2025)

 

Changdeokgung Palace is one of the most iconic royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re planning to visit in 2025, understanding the Changdeokgung Palace reservation process is essential. This guide offers accurate and up-to-date information about booking tickets, Secret Garden tours, and international visitor options.

 

1) About Changdeokgung Palace

• Location: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Operating Hours: 09:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Last admission: 4:30 PM)
• Closed: Every Monday
• Admission Fees:
  • General Admission: Adults ₩3,000 / Youth ₩1,500
  • Huwon Tour: Adults ₩5,000 / Youth ₩2,500 (General admission required separately)

2) How to Reserve  Tickets

1. Online Reservation

• Highly Recommended
• Advance online booking is strongly advised, especially for the Huwon (Secret Garden) tour, which requires a reservation.   
• International credit cards are not accepted for payment.

 

 

 

1) Secret Garden (Huwon) Tour

• Reservations open from 10:00 AM, 6 days prior to the desired visit date (excluding the visit date itself) and are available until the day before the tour on a first-come, first-served basis.
  Note: International credit cards are not accepted for payment.
• Visitors eligible for free or discounted admission must first complete the reservation and payment online. Refunds can then be issued at the ticket booth before the tour begins, upon presenting valid proof of eligibility.
• The Secret Garden tour route passes through the main palace (Jeongjeon Area), so please make sure to reserve a General Admission ticket as well.
  However, if you are eligible for free or discounted general admission or possess a Royal Palace Pass, you do not need to reserve the general admission ticket separately. Please bring supporting documents.

2) General Admission Reservation (Jeongjeon Area)

• Reservation Period: Reservations are available from 10:00 AM, six days before the desired visit date (excluding the visit date itself) until the day before the visit.
• Payment Method: Only credit cards issued in Korea can be used for payment.
• On-site Purchase: Since there is no limit on the number of visitors for general admission, tickets can also be purchased on-site on the day of your visit. However, booking in advance is recommended as mobile ticket holders can enter directly without waiting at the ticket booth.
• Do Not Reserve If:
  • You are eligible for free or discounted admission (proof of eligibility required).
  • You already have a Royal Palaces Integrated Admission Ticket.
    In these cases, simply present the appropriate documentation at the entrance.
• Free Admission on Culture Day: On the last Wednesday of every month, which is designated as Culture Day, general admission is free and no reservation is needed.

2. On-site Ticket Purchase

You can purchase general admission tickets on-site. However, Huwon access is only available by prior reservation.

3) International Booking Options

 

If you’re an international visitor, use the following platforms that support global payments and multiple languages:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4) Visiting the Secret Garden (Huwon)

 

The Secret Garden offers a serene and picturesque experience. It is accessible only through guided tours.

• Tour Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
• Requirement: You must hold a general admission ticket

 

5) Special Events at Changdeokgung in 2025

 

• Don’t miss seasonal programs like the popular Moonlight Tour.
• The program is held twice a year, in both the first and second halves of the year.

 

 

 

1) First Half-Year Schedule (Spring 2025)

1) Event Dates

• April 10, 2025 – June 15, 2025

2) Ticket Price

• Paid admission – 30,000 KRW per person

3) Inquiries

• Program Information: Korea Heritage Service (+82-1522-2295)
• Ticket Reservation Support: Ticketlink Customer Service (+82-1588-7890)

4) Event Times

• 1st Session: 19:20 / 19:25 / 19:30
• 2nd Session: 20:00 / 20:05 / 20:10
• Duration: Approximately 100 minutes per session
• Capacity: 25 participants per time slot

2) Second Half-Year Schedule

• The second half schedule is yet to be determined.

 

6) Important Visitor Information

 

• Bring valid ID for discounted tickets
• Wear a Hanbok to receive free general admission
• Every last Wednesday of the month is Culture Day with free entry (except Huwon- Secret garden)