Located in the heart of Seoul, Jongmyo Shrine is the most sacred royal shrine of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897), enshrining the ancestral tablets of its kings and queens. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the world’s oldest and best-preserved Confucian royal shrine, still hosting traditional rituals today.
The History of Jongmyo Shrine
Jongmyo Shrine was built in 1395, just three years after the establishment of the Joseon Dynasty, following the principle that “with the palace at the center, the shrine should be to the left, and the Sajikdan Altar to the right.” Initially, only the Main Hall (Jeongjeon) existed, but later, Yeongnyeongjeon Hall was added to house additional royal tablets.
Architectural and Cultural Significance
- Jeongjeon (Main Hall): The longest single wooden structure in Korea, it houses the ancestral tablets of Joseon kings and queens.(Currently under restoration until Apr 2025)
- Yeongnyeongjeon Hall: A supplementary hall for tablets after multiple generations.
- Three Gates of the Shrine: The Sinmun (Spirit Gate) is for the spirits, while the east and west gates were used by ritual participants.
- Woldae (Ceremonial Terrace): A vast stone platform that highlights the dignity of royal rituals.
Jongmyo Jerye: The Royal Ancestral Ritual
Jongmyo is famous for the Jongmyo Jerye, a grand Confucian ritual honoring deceased kings and queens. This tradition has been preserved in its original form and was designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2001.
- When is the ritual held?
- The first Sunday of May and the first Saturday of November every year.
- Seasonal rituals are also held five times a year.
- Jongmyo Jeryeak (Royal Ritual Music): Performed during the ceremony, featuring traditional Korean instruments, chants, and dance.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours:
| Period | Opening Hours | Last Admission |
|---|---|---|
| January – February | 09:00 – 17:00 | 16:00 |
| March – May | 09:00 – 18:00 | 17:00 |
| June – August | 09:00 – 18:30 | 17:30 |
| September – October | 09:00 – 18:00 | 17:00 |
| November – December | 09:00 – 17:00 | 16:00 |
- Closed on Tuesdays (Open if Tuesday is a public holiday, then closed the next day.)
Admission Fees:
- Adults (19-64): ₩3,000 (Group: ₩2,400 for 10+ people)
- Free Admission: Under 18, over 65, Hanbok wearers, and on Culture Day (last Wednesday of the month)
- Royal Palace Pass: ₩10,000 (Includes Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Jongmyo Shrine; valid for 3 months)
Free Guided Tours:
| Language | Days | Tour Times |
| English | Wed-Mon | 11:00, 13:30, 15:30 |
| Japanese | Wed-Mon | 10:00, 14:30 |
| Chinese | Wed-Mon | 10:30, 15:00 |
| Spanish | Fri-Sat | 10:30, 15:00 |
- Tours last 60 to 90 minutes.
- Groups of 10+ require reservations.
- Meeting point: Gyeongbokgung Palace Information Center inside Heungnyemun Gate.
FAQs About Jongmyo Shrine
- Why is Jongmyo Shrine important?
It is the oldest Confucian royal shrine, preserving Korea’s royal ancestral worship traditions. - Can visitors attend the Jongmyo Jerye ritual?
Yes! The ceremony is open to the public on the first Sunday of May and first Saturday of November each year. - What makes Jongmyo Shrine unique compared to other Korean palaces?
Unlike the palaces, it is a sacred space solely dedicated to royal ancestral worship. - Is it possible to visit Jongmyo Shrine for free?
Yes! Visitors can enter for free if they are under 18, over 65, wearing a Hanbok, or visiting on Culture Day. - How can I get to Jongmyo Shrine?
The shrine is easily accessible via Jongno 3-ga Station (Subway Lines 1, 3, and 5), Exit 11.
Experience the solemn beauty of Jongmyo Shrine, where centuries-old traditions continue to thrive in modern Seoul.