On the 27th, as heavy snow fell nationwide, especially in the capital region, the Cultural Heritage Administration’s Palaces and Tombs Division announced that Deoksugung Palace would be closed to visitors for two days, from the 27th to the 28th, to ensure public safety.
According to current "Regulations on Viewing Palaces and Tombs," access to palaces and tombs can be restricted during natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, heavy rain, or snow, as well as during abnormal weather conditions like extreme heat or fine dust (PM2.5).
Currently, the main gate of Deoksugung, Daehanmun, has been closed.
Access to "King Gojong’s Path," which connects the stone-wall road of Deoksugung to Jeongdong Park and the Russian Legation, and entry to Junghwajeon Hall are also restricted. Deoksugung officials are assessing damage caused by the snow and working on clearing and maintaining viewing paths.
Other palaces, except for Deoksugung, are scheduled to be closed during the morning of the 28th.
Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Changgyeonggung Palaces will suspend access from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and reopen to visitors starting at 1 p.m.
However, Changdeokgung’s Huwon (Secret Garden) will remain closed for the entire day on the 28th.
The Changdeokgung Office stated, "Reservations for Huwon tours will be automatically canceled, and full refunds will be provided. Visitors may also purchase tickets for a preferred date by presenting the cancellation details at the ticket counter by December 11."
Access to the Geunjeongjeon Hall’s stone platform at Gyeongbokgung Palace will also be restricted until the 28th.
Additionally, Jongmyo Shrine, where the ancestral tablets of Joseon Dynasty kings and queens, as well as posthumously honored royals, are enshrined, will be closed to visitors for two days to prioritize safety.
For Korean shopping and business agency services
Comments