Jeongdong Observatory

Jeongdong Observatory is a free observation deck on the 13th floor of the Seoul City Hall Seosomun Building, offering views of downtown Seoul. Unknown to most tourists, this quiet spot provides an escape from the city with a small café and views over Deoksugung Palace.

If you want great views with no crowds, no admission fees, and easy access in central Seoul, Jeongdong Observatory is the perfect place to go.

While reservations were required in the past, as of 2023, they are no longer needed. However, the observatory is only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

The Seoul City Hall Seosomun Building serves as an annex to the main Seoul City Hall, housing municipal offices and public facilities. In 2013, the city repurposed a former storage space into the observatory.

A Hidden Gem Missed by Many

To reach the observatory, enter the building on the right hand side, and follow signs for the Jeongdong Observatory. At the elevator past the subway-style gates, head to the 13th floor.

The observatory is quieter than other spots such as N Seoul Tower, Lotte World Tower, and 63 Square (63 Building). Unlike those, Jeongdong Observatory is free. But just because it’s free doesn’t mean the views are less impressive.

The best part about Jeongdong Observatory is how it’s hidden in plain sight. Many tourists visiting Deoksugung Palace have no idea this observatory is just steps away. Sometimes, you might even have it all to yourself.

Scenic Views of Seoul’s Past and Present

What makes a visit to Jeongdong Observatory great, besides its free entrance, is the view of Seoul, where centuries-old palace buildings stand alongside modern skyscrapers.

While only on the 13th floor, the observatory offers a fantastic view of the Seoul skyline. On a clear day, you can see prominent landmarks such as Deoksugung Palace, Chongdong Theater, Chungdong First Methodist Church, Seoul City Hall, and the Former Russian Legation.

History of Jeongdong and Jeongdong Observatory

Jeongdong is a historically significant area of central Seoul. The area was once the heart of foreign diplomacy in Korea. It also played a key role in Korea’s modernization during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

During the late Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897), Jeongdong was the home of many embassies, including the United States, Britain, Russia, and France. The area was also home to Korea’s first modern schools and Christian churches.

Jeongdong is also home to Deoksugung Palace, one of Seoul’s five main palaces. King Gojong, Korea’s last true ruling monarch, lived there on and off until his death at the palace in 1919.

Today, Jeongdong is a mix of history and modern life, with many old landmarks and newer buildings, some of which can be seen from the observatory.

Café Darak

Also on the observatory floor is Café Darak, a small café with a simple menu of coffee, tea, and light snacks. While the selection is limited, it includes espresso drinks, herbal teas like chamomile and peppermint, a chocolate drink, and cookies.

Most people grab a drink from Café Darak and sit by the window, taking in the views of Deoksugung Palace and the city below. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery, especially on a clear day.

You can still sit at any seat or table even if you don’t grab a drink at the café. Near the window, look for the display with a labeled view of Seoul’s skyline, pointing out prominent landmarks. It’s a handy guide for spotting key sights.

Other than the café and views, there’s a small souvenir section for those looking to bring something home. On the observatory’s walls are information boards about nearby sights and historic photographs of the area.

Nearby Sights

Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace was the location where Prince Wolsan, older brother of King Seongjong, lived. At the time, the residence was not known as a palace yet. The area consisted of residential buildings for descendants of the royal family.

Seoul Museum of Art

Seoul Plaza

Seoul Plaza is an oval public space located in front of City Hall in the heart of the city. Once a traffic circle, it is now used for events and festivals. Originally, a large water fountain could be found in the center of the traffic circle, but it has since been removed.

Old Seoul City Hall (Seoul Metropolitan Library)

The Old Seoul City Hall, now the Seoul Metropolitan Library, is a Renaissance style building that served as the city hall of Seoul from 1945 until 2008. After over four years of construction, the new city hall building opened on August 27, 2012. The building was slated for demolition multiple times but was saved because of its historical importance. It has now been converted to the Seoul Metropolitan Library.

Seoul Anglican Cathedral

Seoul Anglican Cathedral is a Romanesque style Anglican church founded by Bishop C.J Corfe in 1922. It is located just west of Deoksugung Palace and Seoul Plaza. Its official name is Cathedral Church of Saint Mary the Virgin and Saint Nicholas.

Chungdong First Methodist Church

Chungdong First Methodist Church, established in 1897 by American missionary Henry Appenzeller, is the first Protestant church of Korea. The beautiful red brick church is located just down the road from Deoksugung Palace and Seoul Plaza.

Last Updated on Feb 6, 2025