Gyeongbok Palace to open rarely accessible sites for visitors this October

Hyangwonjeong and Geoncheonggung, two rarely opened sites within South Korea's Gyeongbok Palace, will temporarily accept visitors this October.

The Royal Palaces and Tombs Center of the Korea Heritage Service announced a special program from Oct. 15 to 31 that will allow visitors to access Geoncheonggung and Hyangwonjeong, The Korea Herald reported.

Built in 1873, Geoncheonggung served as the residence of King Gojong, the last monarch of Joseon, and his wife, Queen Myeongseong. It’s also where the queen was killed by Japanese forces in October 1895. It's also known for having Korea’s first electric lights, installed in 1887.

After King Gojong moved to the Russian legation, the Japanese colonial government dismantled the residence around 1909. It was rebuilt in its original form in 2007.

Meanwhile, Hyangwonjeong, a late Joseon-era hexagonal pavilion built on an artificial pond, was used as a retreat for the royal family. It was restored by local artisans in 2021.

The two structures were both part of the Joseon Dynasty's main palace and are usually closed to visitors due to preservation concerns, according to the outlet.

Note that you would need to reserve in advance to join the tour, and tickets must be purchased at least one day before the visit via the official site.