PHOTOS: Seokpajeong, Seoul's hidden gem where royal history meets tranquil beauty

Trees burst into vibrant colors at Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunSEOUL, November 25 (AJP) - Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion with detached traditional residence buildings and gardens in central Seoul, is more than just a historical site, as it serves as a hidden oasis offering a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle.

Located in the tranquil district of Buam-dong on the slopes of Mt. Inwangsan, the pavilion is awash in vibrant autumn leaves at this time of year, welcoming visitors with its seasonal beauty.

Once used by Gojong, the last king of the Joseon Dynasty, as a secluded royal residence, Seokpajeong, which literally means a "pavilion on a rocky hill," was designated a tangible cultural asset in 1974 and has been preserved as a museum ever since.
 Trees burst into vibrant colors at Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunA visitor looks at trees at Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunAccording to historical records and folklore, Seokpajeong originally belonged to a high-ranking official and the site's breathtaking landscape caught the eye of Heungseon Daewongun, Gojong's father and the period's most powerful political figure.

When the official refused to sell, Daewongun devised a cunning plan and arranged for the young king to spend a night at the villa. Under royal protocol, no subject could live in a place once visited by the king, forcing the official to relinquish his cherished retreat.

Enchanted by the natural beauty of the rocks and surrounding mountain scenery, Daewongun even adopted his pen name from the pavilion.
 Visitors look around Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunVisitors take a rest at Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunTrees burst into vibrant colors at Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunThe Chinese-style pavilion, with its granite floor, exudes a unique and exotic charm, setting it apart from other traditional pavilions.

Along the path to the inner garden stands a giant rock shaped like an elephant. Believed to be a site of spiritual energy, it attracts many visitors who come to make wishes.
 Visitors look around Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunStones are stacked at Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunVisitors can also look around the country's traditional roof-tiled houses or hanok, which consist of a main quarter, a guest room, and a separate wing connected by a small gate and stone walls, forming a square-shaped courtyard layout.

Another highlight is an old pine tree, protected by the city for its historical significance. Its gnarled branches stand as silent witnesses to the site's centuries of history.
 A giant stone is seen at Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunVisitors look around Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunVisitors look around Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunTrees burst into vibrant colors at Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyunTrees burst into vibrant colors at Seokpajeong, an ancient pavilion in central Seoul on Nov. 14, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Yoo Na-hyun Reporter shooting@ajupress.com