A royal ceremony in a traditional courtyard
Yeongyeongdang, inside Changdeokgung Palace’s Secret Garden in Seoul, offers a way to imagine court life beyond the familiar palace halls. On 3 and 4 November 2026, the venue is scheduled to host a reenactment of the 'Royal Jinjak Ceremony at Yeongyeongdang in the Muja Year of King Sunjo.' Court dances bring historical accounts of an elaborate royal rite into a living setting.
What does Jinjak mean?
Jinjak was a ceremony at which officials presented wine and food to the king to show respect on a special royal occasion. This reconstruction draws on historical research, including the record known as the Sunjo Muja Jinjak Uigwe. It is being presented by Changdeokgung Palace Management Office together with the World Ethnic Dance Research Institute affiliated with Korea National University of Arts.
Different dances on different days
The official programme lists Cheopseungmu, Musanhyang, Choihwamu, Hyangnyeongmu and Chungwangho for 3 November. For 4 November, it lists Mangseonmun, Gongmakmu, Yeongji, Chunaengjeon and Bakjeopmu. The exact on-site sequence and commentary may differ, so follow staff guidance.
Practical visit notes
Both performances are scheduled to start at 11 a.m., but the organiser does not specify a finishing time. The venue is Yeongyeongdang in the Secret Garden. Visitors with Secret Garden admission may attend, with unassigned seating. The official notice lists a KRW 5,000 Secret Garden admission fee rather than an additional performance ticket. It does not guarantee remaining tickets, booking availability or other palace admission charges. Rain cancels the performance. Check the original announcement and the latest Secret Garden admission information before planning your visit.