This is the second of two articles introducing noteworthy Korean heritage-inspired souvenirs.
The Palace Perfume collection features two scents inspired by the blossoms of Changgyeong Palace, right, and Deoksu Palace. Courtesy of K-Heritage Store
For visitors looking to take home more than just photos, Korea’s growing range of heritage-inspired beauty products offers a meaningful and elegant way to remember their visit. Among them is the Palace Perfume collection, which invites users on a sensory journey through the royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty.
Developed by the Korea Heritage Service and Korea Heritage Agency, the fragrances bring the hidden scents of Seoul’s royal palaces to life by using the aroma of actual flowers found on the palace grounds.
The lineup currently features two signature scents. The Changgyeong Palace Korean Cherry fragrance recreates the sweet smell of blossoms found near Okcheon Bridge in the palace. According to historical records, Sejong the Great (1397-1450), Joseon’s fourth king, loved these cherries. The perfume leans into the sweetness of the bloom, with iris added to give the finish a warmer, more elegant note.
The Deoksu Palace Plum Blossom fragrance takes a brighter, fresher approach. It draws inspiration from the plum trees standing in front of Seokjojeon hall, a rare combination of neoclassical design and traditional Korean architecture built in the early 20th century. The plum blossom served as the official symbol of the short-lived Korean Empire and its motif still appears across the palace today. The scent leans toward citrus green floral, with plum blossom featured as a middle note.
Princess Hwahyup's Miango (beauty balm jar) / Courtesy of K-Heritage Store
In addition to perfumes, the beauty line features items inspired by Princess Hwahyeop (1733-53). They include a lip balm that blends safflower extract and wax, echoing the natural cosmetics used during the Joseon era and referencing beauty products uncovered in the 2015 excavation of Princess Hwahyeop’s tomb. The lip balm container pays homage to Korean blue-and-white porcelain, featuring a chrysanthemum motif, traditionally associated with long life and good health. The line also includes a ceramic facial massage tool and a plum blossom-scented hand cream, offering a more accessible gift option.
Visitors can find these items at Sarang souvenir shops located at Gyeongbok Palace, Changdeok Palace and Incheon International Airport. They are also available for purchase through the K-Heritage Store, operated by the Korea Heritage Agency. (Baek Byung-yeul)
A shot glass set featuring a blue tiger motif inspired by "hojakdo," a traditional Korean painting of tigers and magpies / Courtesy of Yul Art
Source: Korea Times News
