Gyeongbokgung Starlight Tour

Enjoy a beautiful nighttime journey to the northern quarters of Gyeongbokgung Palace along with a traditional Korean music performance and a meal worthy of the king at the Sojubang (royal kitchen) accompanied by expert commentary. From Geoncheonggung Residence to Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, this exclusive access to the palace’s northern quarters offers a rare opportunity to embrace the tranquil elegance of the historic grounds. The unique experience will leave you with unforgettable impressions of the unparalleled beauty and charms of Gyeongbokgung Palace by starlight.

Palace Royal Guard Changing Ceremony

The Palace Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace has been held as a traditional cultural event since 2002 to reenact the royal guard changing procedure that occurred during the Joseon Dynasty. Based on the records of Joseonwangjosillok (Annals of the Joseon Dynasty), which describes the implementation of the Palace Royal Guard System in 1469 (1st year of King Yejong’s reign), the ceremony focuses on presenting the uniforms and weapons to provide a glimpse into the appearance of soldiers during the early Joseon period.

Jongmyodaeje

Jongmyo Jerye is a rite performed to honor the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty at Jongmyo Shrine, a national shrine and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. Being the largest and most important rite of Korea, it is also called Jongmyo Daeje, with “daeje” meaning “great rite/ceremony.” Jongmyo Daeje used to be held five times a year in spring, summer, autumn, winter, and at Nabil, but at present, it is only held on the first Sunday of May each year. Jongmyo Jerye is a comprehensive ceremony where tangible and intangible heritages such as various rites, including a rite to honor the past kings and queens, and music and dance performances can be enjoyed at the same time.

Diplomatic Reception for Envoys to the Korean Empire

The Diplomatic Reception for Envoys to the Korean Empire is an event where a historical play is staged to shed light on the diplomatic relations of the Korean Empire. In addition to a reenactment of a ceremony and banquet organized for foreign ministers to have an audience with Emperor Gojong in 1900, there will be performances by a military band, geommu (sword dance), and sajachum (lion dance).