This March marked a special milestone for me—10 years of living in Korea. Over the past decade, I’ve explored countless corners of this vibrant country, from its bustling cities to its serene countryside. Yet, much to my surprise, I had never heard of Unhyeongung until recently. It was a stunning Instagram post that introduced me to this hidden treasure, and I knew I had to see it for myself.

The photo that caught my eye featured a Korean woman sitting gracefully on the porch of a traditional hanok house. Behind her, a wall of fluffy white plum blossoms framed the scene, exuding the quiet charm of spring. The caption read, “Unhyeongung is fully under the spring charm,” and the geotag—운현궁—sealed the deal. I immediately made plans to visit that very weekend.

Finding Unhyeongung

Unhyeongung is conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Exit 4 of Anguk Station on Seoul Subway Line 3. Nestled in a neighborhood famous for its grand palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, it’s no wonder Unhyeongung often flies under the radar. The “gung” in its name means “palace,” but unlike its larger counterparts, Unhyeongung is modest in size and scale.

I learned from a pamphlet that Unhyeongung holds a unique place in Korean history. It was once the residence of Emperor Gojong, the last king of the Joseon Dynasty, before his coronation. The palace also served as the home of his biological father, Prince Heungseon Daewongun. After enduring the turmoil of Japanese colonial rule, the complex was eventually sold to the Seoul government. Today, it stands as a museum, open to the public free of charge—a quiet testament to Korea’s royal past.

A Peaceful Escape

My boyfriend and I arrived late on a Sunday morning, and to our delight, the palace was nearly empty. The serenity of Unhyeongung was a stark contrast to the crowds we had seen in videos of Changdeokgung, where hundreds had gathered to admire the plum blossoms. Here, we had the space to wander freely, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and the delicate beauty of the spring blooms.

The combination of the dark, traditional hanok tiles and the soft, white plum blossoms was nothing short of magical. It felt like stepping into a painting, where every corner offered a new perspective of Korea’s timeless beauty. The quietude of Unhyeongung made it easy to imagine what life might have been like during the Joseon era, away from the hustle and bustle of modern Seoul.

Why Unhyeongung Should Be on Your List

If you’re planning a trip to Seoul in late March, I highly recommend adding Unhyeongung to your itinerary. While the grand palaces are undoubtedly impressive, Unhyeongung offers a more intimate and peaceful experience. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the spring blossoms without the crowds, and its rich history adds depth to the visit.

For those who appreciate the quieter side of travel, Unhyeongung is a reminder that sometimes the most beautiful places are the ones we stumble upon unexpectedly. It’s a hidden gem that deserves more recognition, and I’m grateful to have discovered it during such a picturesque season.

So, if you find yourself in Seoul next spring, take a detour from the well-trodden path and visit Unhyeongung. Let its charm and history captivate you, just as it did for me. You might just find your new favorite spot in the city.

Until next time, happy exploring! 🌸

Access Map

Access Map

 Address: 서울 종로구 삼일대로 464 운현궁
 Naver map: http://naver.me/5rshydiL
 Hours: 9AM-7PM, closed on Monday
 Telephone: +82-2-766-9090
 Entrance Fee: Free of charge
  

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