Interactive Performance of the "Korean Empire Foreign Envoy Reception Ceremony" at Deoksugung Palace

Scenes from the event held in 2023. Provided by the Cultural Heritage Administration, Bureau of Palaces and Royal Tombs.

The Cultural Heritage Administration, Headquarters for Royal Palaces and Tombs, and the National Heritage Center announced on September 23 that they will hold the "Korean Empire Foreign Envoy Reception Ceremony" event at Deoksugung Palace in Jung-gu, Seoul, on October 18, 19, 25, and 26.

This event is a performance that reenacts the ceremonies in which Emperor Gojong (1863-1907) of the Korean Empire received diplomatic envoys and hosted banquets. It is part of a palace utilization program that has been running since 2010. Last year, the program was paused for improvements, and this year it returns with a new format that emphasizes interactive experiences for the audience.

The stage is set based on the scene in 1900 (the fourth year of Gwangmu) when Emperor Gojong received the American envoy Allen (1858-1932) and the Russian envoy Pavlov (1860-1923) at Deoksugung Palace. This year, reflecting historical records, the reception venue has been moved from Jeonggwanheon, where it was previously held, to Hamnyeongjeon, the actual site of the historical meeting.

Additionally, Lee Chaeyeon (1861-1900), who served as Hansung Panyun, appears in the performance to introduce the modernization efforts of the capital, Hansung, adding historical depth. The Hansung Panyun was a high-ranking official (second senior rank) in charge of the capital during the Joseon Dynasty, equivalent to the current Mayor of Seoul.

Various performances will also be held inside and outside the palace. Theatrical plays will take place at Hamnyeongjeon and Jeonggwanheon, while military band performances, sword dances, and lion dances will be staged in the courtyards of Junmyeongdang and Jeukjodang. Reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis for 25 people per session through Ticketlink, starting at 2 p.m. on September 29.

The Headquarters for Royal Palaces and Tombs stated, "Through this renewal, we have more deeply reflected the historical significance of the Korean Empire and Deoksugung Palace," adding, "We will continue to present programs that highlight the unique locations and history of the royal palaces and tombs."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.