1 of 2 | Women wearing Korean traditional Hanbok clothing react as they visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea, 13 May 2026. The palace grounds are open for night tours from 13 May to 14 June 2026. Photo BY JEON HEON-KYUN / EPA
May 20 (Asia Today) -- South Korea's royal palaces and tombs are rapidly transforming into some of the country's most sought-after cultural destinations, attracting younger generations and foreign tourists through immersive programs combining history, performances, food and nighttime experiences.
Programs linked to the annual Royal Culture Festival have repeatedly sold out, with palace events now generating ticket competition comparable to major K-pop concerts.
According to the Korea Heritage Service and the Korea Heritage Agency, this spring's Royal Culture Festival drew 725,281 visitors, the highest attendance since the event began.
Foreign visitors to four major Seoul palaces and Jongmyo Shrine reached 183,427, up about 33% from last year.
