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.
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 Jeong-dong and Jeongdong Observatory
Jeong-dong 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), Jeong-dong 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.
Jeong-dong 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, Jeong-dong 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.
Jeongdong Observatory Information
Hours
Tuesday: 1:30 – 5:30 PM
Wednesday: 1:30 – 5:30 PM
Thursday: 1:30 – 5:30 PM
Friday: 1:30 – 5:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Admission
Free
Address
15 Deoksugung-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
GPS Coordinates: 37.564442, 126.975691
How to Get Here
Take Subway Line 1 or Line 2 to City Hall Station (Exit 1). From the exit, make a U turn.
When you see the front gate of Deoksugung Palace, turn left and follow the walls of the palace.
Continue for 120 meters to the Seoul City Hall Seosomun Building on the left.
To enter the building, use the entrance on the right hand side of the building.
Once inside, walk through the subway style gates to reach the elevator.
Enter the elevator and press the button for the 13th floor to reach the observatory.
Map
Official Website
Nearby Sights
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Last Updated on Jun 4, 2025