SEOUL, April 23 (Korea Bizwire) — Gyoetaejeon, the royal residence of Joseon-era queens within Gyeongbokgung Palace, will open its doors to the public for a limited time this spring to mark the 30th anniversary of its restoration.
The Korea Heritage Service announced on April 23, 2025, that the interior of the historic structure will be specially accessible from May 8 through June 27, every Wednesday to Friday.
Originally built around 1440, Gyoetaejeon—also known as the “Central Palace” due to its location at the heart of the Gyeongbokgung complex—served as the primary quarters for the queen. Its name, Gyoetae, symbolizes cosmic harmony and prosperity, blending the ideas of heaven, earth, and yin-yang energy.
The original structure was lost over time and dismantled during Japanese colonial rule in 1917, when parts of it were repurposed to rebuild Daejojeon in Changdeokgung Palace following a major fire. The current Gyoetaejeon was reconstructed in 1995.
Visitors to this special opening will be able to explore the queen’s quarters, including the daecheong (main hall), ondolbang (heated room), and corridors. Inside the daecheong, two replica bubyeokhwa—traditional murals painted on silk or paper and affixed to walls—will be on display, including depictions of a pair of affectionate parrots and a mother monkey surrounded by her young.
The ondolbang will exhibit recreated artifacts reflective of the queen’s life, while Gonsungak, a lesser-known auxiliary structure attached to Gyoetaejeon, will be open to the public for the first time. There, visitors can view immersive digital renderings of animals featured in the murals and take commemorative photos.
The experience also includes a walk through the corridor leading to Amisan, the queen’s private garden, offering a serene view into royal life.
Access to the interior will be limited to 15 people per session and is by reservation only through the official website of the Korea Heritage Service. Reservations open at 2 p.m. on April 30.
Image credit: Korea Heritage Service / photonews@koreabizwire.com
