A bell summons the royal guards
Cheopjong was a Joseon military ceremony in which repeated bell strikes summoned guards to be inspected by the king. The Korea Heritage Agency's reenactment draws on historical records in the Gyeongguk Daejeon and Gukjo Oryeui. The scenes progress through summoning, roll call, troop formations, martial-arts demonstrations and departure.
Dates, times and admission
The event takes place at Heungnyemun Square, Gyeongbokgung Palace, from Friday, October 30 to Sunday, November 1, 2026. There are two performances each day, 11:00–11:45 a.m. and 2:00–2:45 p.m. Admission to the ceremony is free, and visitors can watch on site without advance booking. Public rehearsals are listed for October 29 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.; verify which session is open to general visitors.
The usual guard change is replaced
From October 29 to November 1 the palace will suspend its ordinary changing-of-the-guard ceremony. Instead, Gwanghwamun guard patrol demonstrations are scheduled at the Gwanghwamun forecourt at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Visitors could pair the 10 a.m. patrol with the 11 a.m. reenactment, or the 1 p.m. patrol with the 2 p.m. reenactment.
Practical caveat
Rain and other conditions may change or cancel the event. Follow staff instructions and check the official notice before travelling.