Originally built during the Joseon period, this historic palace played an important role in Korea’s modern history. In fact, it served as the backdrop for the Daehanjeguk, or Great Korean Empire. The only palace among all the ancient palaces in Seoul to have a western style garden, fountain, and modern royal palace, it stands as the bridge between the old and modern eras. The changing of the royal guard ceremony that takes place every day at the main gate (called Sumumjang) is one of the must-see sights of Seoul.