Gungneung Heritage Headquarters Receives S Grade for Second Consecutive Time in Comprehensive Evaluation of Responsible Operating Agencies

High Scores in Both Core Business and Management Capabilities

The Cultural Heritage Administration's Office of Royal Palaces and Tombs announced on the 7th that it was selected as the top institution (S grade) for the second consecutive time in last year's comprehensive evaluation of responsible operating agencies conducted by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. It achieved high scores in both its unique projects and management capabilities, ranking first among thirteen educational and cultural institutions. Among the forty-seven responsible operating agencies under central administrative institutions, only four received an S grade.

The Office of Royal Palaces and Tombs is the operating agency responsible for the systematic preservation and utilization of Korea's representative cultural heritage, including royal palaces and Joseon royal tombs. Last year, it also activated programs for palace and tomb utilization and enhanced participation opportunities for socially disadvantaged groups.

In the comprehensive evaluation of responsible operating agencies, it was highly rated for contributing to the enhancement of the public's right to enjoy cultural heritage. This includes the restoration of the Gwanghwamun Woldae and signboards, the development and operation of a dedicated viewing guide program for the visually impaired at the four major palaces, spreading the value of the Joseon royal tomb forests, and opening 'Hyoreung' at Seosamneung in Goyang. Thanks to these efforts, the number of visitors to palaces and Joseon royal tombs last year reached a record high of 14.38 million.

The Office of Royal Palaces and Tombs stated, "We will continue to grow as a comprehensive cultural heritage service institution and respond to the demands of the times for forming a cultural consensus among the public and the creative utilization of royal palaces and tombs."