Two historically significant and normally restricted areas within Gyeongbok Palace, one of Seoul's most popular tourist attractions, will open their doors to visitors for a special limited-time program this month. The Royal Palaces and Tombs Center of the Korea Heritage Service has announced that the interiors of Geoncheonggung and Hyangwonjeong, both situated in the palace's most private inner sections, will be accessible to the public from October 15 through October 31.
These remarkable structures, which form part of the Joseon Dynasty's primary royal palace complex that operated from 1392 to 1910, are typically kept closed to visitors due to strict preservation requirements and their delicate historical condition. The special access program represents a rare opportunity for the public to experience these intimate spaces that once housed Korean royalty.
Geoncheonggung holds particular significance in Korean history, having been constructed in 1873 during the extensive reconstruction of Gyeongbok Palace under King Gojong, who would become the last monarch of the Joseon Dynasty. This elegant complex served as the private residential quarters for King Gojong and his wife, Queen Myeongseong, making it witness to some of the most pivotal moments in late 19th-century Korean history.
The residence gained tragic historical importance as the site where Queen Myeongseong was assassinated by Japanese forces in October 1895, an event that marked a turning point in Korea's relationship with Japan and had lasting implications for the country's independence. Additionally, Geoncheonggung holds the distinction of being where Korea's first electric lighting system was installed in 1887, representing the nation's early embrace of modern technology.
Following King Gojong's relocation to the Russian legation for safety reasons, the original Geoncheonggung complex was systematically dismantled by the Japanese colonial government around 1909 as part of their broader efforts to erase Korean cultural landmarks. However, in 2007, the building was meticulously restored to its original architectural form using historical records and archaeological evidence, allowing modern visitors to experience the space as it existed during the height of the Joseon Dynasty.
The second site, Hyangwonjeong, represents a different aspect of royal life during the late Joseon period. This exquisite pavilion was built on an artificial pond and served as a peaceful retreat where members of the royal family could escape the formalities of court life. The structure is particularly celebrated among architectural historians for its elegant design and harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape, embodying the Korean aesthetic principles of balance between human-made structures and natural environments.
Access to this exclusive tour experience requires advance planning, as reservations must be made ahead of time. Interested visitors need to purchase their tickets at least one day before their intended visit date through the official ticketing website at https://nol.interpark.com. This reservation system helps manage visitor numbers to ensure the preservation of these delicate historical sites while providing an intimate and educational experience for those fortunate enough to participate in the program.
