Cultural Heritage Administration Allows 'Gyeongbokgung Fashion Show'... Reverses Entry Without Criteria

'Gucci Cosmogony' Collection Fashion Show to Be Held at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Decision Reversed in Ten Days... Will Administration Change Following Public Opinion?

The 'Gyeongbokgung Fashion Show,' which was canceled due to controversy over the use of the Blue House, will proceed as originally planned. Gucci announced on the 8th that "on November 1st, the 'Gucci Cosmogonie' collection fashion show will be held at Seoul's Gyeongbokgung Palace."

The Cultural Heritage Administration had canceled the event on the 29th of last month after the fashion photoshoot held at the Blue House came under scrutiny. However, on the 5th, when Gucci submitted a plan to carry out the fashion show to the Gyeongbokgung Management Office, the stance was reversed, citing that the matter had already been approved by the Cultural Heritage Committee.

Earlier, Gucci submitted an application to use Gyeongbokgung Palace, stating that they would hold the event inspired by astronomy, reflecting the theme of the 'Cosmogonie' collection. The advisory body, the Cultural Heritage Committee, approved the application with conditions such as "strengthening the value of the historical and cultural heritage of Gyeongbokgung through expert advice and ensuring thorough verification of historical facts." However, amid criticism that cultural heritage was not being properly utilized, including the Blue House photoshoot, the event was suddenly canceled.

The reversal of the decision within ten days was because it was seen as an opportunity to promote Gyeongbokgung Palace worldwide. It is also reported that Gucci submitted a plan contributing to environmental improvement projects. Nevertheless, reversing the position without clear standards makes it difficult to avoid criticism of "inconsistent administration." There are continuous criticisms that administrative decisions change according to public opinion, lacking consistency.

Brand events have often been held at world cultural heritage sites such as Italy's Pitti Palace and France's Versailles Palace. This collection was first showcased in May at the UNESCO World Heritage site 'Castel del Monte' in southern Italy. Domestically, Deoksugung and Changdeokgung Palaces have been used as venues for fashion shows.