경복궁 중심건물 국보 근정전, 내부 첫 개방
The throne hall of Seoul's main palace, which was used for the coronation of Joseon kings hundreds of years ago has finally been opened to the public for the first time.
And our Won Jung-hwan takes us there.
Every year, nearly 6-million people visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the first and largest royal palace built during the Joseon Dynasty.
The palace served as the home of the King and his household as well as the government of Joseon.
But for many years, visitors have never had a chance to actually go inside the breathtaking throne hall,... where King ruled the country.
"This place was blocked off from public view for hundreds of years, but now visitors have the opportunity to step inside for the first time"
For around one month starting on Wednesday,… as part of efforts to open up more of the palace, visitors are allowed in to savor the majestic interior of its main hall, known as Geunjeongjeon.
"The inside of Geunjeongjeon used to be kept from the public due to concerns over damage and security,... but we decided to take gradual steps to open it to the public."
Geunjeongjeon, the largest wooden building in the palace, was used for the most important royal ceremonies and functions by the leaders of Joseon.
Kings would have sat on a throne nearly 2 meters off the ground, to receive foreign guests, watch ceremonies on the stone-paved courtyard,… and host the highest level assemblies attended by their aides.
Some 75 assemblies took place every year at this place during the Joseon period.
Visitors to the throne room are overwhelmed by the 16-meter high ceiling which is decorated by a carving of a pair of golden dragons that symbolize royal authority.
"When I looked from outside,... I didn't know this place would be so spacious and cool."
"The floor is very impressive. I always thought it would be a wooden floor, but it is actually made of stone. Also, when I saw this building from outside, I thought it would be a two-story structure, but it is actually one gigantic room."
During the special visiting period until September 21,... groups of 20 visitors will be allowed into the hall through two 20-minute guided tours every day from Wednesday to Saturday, free of charge.
Reservations are only available online, and visitors must be aged 13 or older.
Won Jung-hwan, Arirang News.
