Changdeok Palace is the palace of the Joseon Dynasty in Seoul.

It is located east of the main palace

(Gyeongbok Palace), nicknamed Donggung (East Palace). Changdeokgung means "Palace of Glorious
Virtue".

Changdeokgung, also known as Changdeokgung Palace or Changdeok Palace, is set within a

large park in Jongbo-gu, Seoul, South Korea. It is one of the “Five Grand Palaces” built by the kings
of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). As it is located east of Gyeongbok Palace, Changdeokgung—
along with Changgyeonggung—is also referred to as the "East Palace" (동궐, 東闕, Donggwol).

Changdeokgung or Changdeok Palace was first built on October 19, 1405 during
the Joseon Dynasty by King Tejaong. Initially this palace was built with the aim of
being a resting place for the king, because at that time all government activities
were still centered in Gyeongbeokgung which was the main palace. While other
resorts were built in remote areas, Changdeokgung was built in the capital, even
though it was only one kilometer from Gyeongbeokgung.
Because it was originally built for a resting place, this palace was built with an atmosphere filled
with comfort. Royal activities such as receiving guests from abroad and performing daily
ceremonies are not carried out in this palace. The uniqueness of this palace is that there is no
definite development plan, because the construction is adjusted to the needs that continue to
grow over time.

The Japanese attack that occurred around 1592 made Gyeongbeokgung destroyed. After the Japanese
offensive ended in 1598, Gyeongbeokgung was quickly rebuilt. This palace was a top priority for the
government, but for some reason attention suddenly turned to Changdeokgung. Finally, over time
government activities were transferred to Changdeokgung.

Important buildings or structures of particular interest include in Changdeokgung Palace, there are..

- Donhwamun Gate

- Geumcheongyo Bridge

- Injeongjeon Hall

- Seonjeongjeon Hall

- Huijeongdang Hall

- Daejojeon Hall

- Juhamnu Pavilion (Kyujanggak)

- Yeon-gyeongdang Residence

- Rear Garden named Huwon

Changdeokgung Palace have 13 buildings remaining on the palace grounds and 28
pavilions in the gardens, occupying 110 acres (45 hectares) in all and the area is
designated as Historical Site No. 122. Buildings of note include Donhwamun (built in
1412, rebuilt in 1607, with a copper bell weighing 9 short tons or 8 metric tons),
Injeongjeon (main hall), Seonjeongjeon (auxiliary office in the main hall), Huijeongdang
(the king's private residence, later used as a conference hall), Daejojeon (living
quarters), and Nakseon-jae.

Changdeokgung was added to the UNESCO World Heritage

List in 1997. The UNESCO committee stated, the place was an
"outstanding, example of Far Eastern palace architecture and
garden design". being exceptional because, the buildings are
"integrated into and harmonized with the natural setting". and
adapted "to the topography and retaining indigenous tree cover."