In a move that significantly elevates the visitor experience to South Korea’s storied royal heritage, the Korea Heritage Service, in collaboration with the Royal Palaces and Tombs Center, has announced the much-anticipated launch of the K-Royal Palaces PASS. This exclusive offering provides unlimited entry to Seoul’s five iconic royal palaces—Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, Changgyeonggung, and Gyeonghuigung—as well as Jongmyo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site revered for its significance in Confucian rituals.

The K-Royal Palaces PASS will debut during the 2024 Fall K-Royal Culture Festival, running from October 9 to October 13. This celebrated event marks its tenth anniversary. Designed for local and international tourists, this pass is a gateway to an enriched cultural journey through Seoul’s historic architecture and gardens.

A Gateway to Seoul’s Regal History

The pass, however, offers more than just access to these esteemed sites. Embedded with a T-Money function, it doubles as a public transportation card, making navigation through Seoul effortless even after the festival’s conclusion. It’s the first time such a versatile product has been introduced, aligning with the city’s vision to provide visitors with seamless, all-in-one access to Seoul’s rich cultural tapestry.

Exclusive Perks for a Memorable Experience

In celebration of the K-Royal Culture Festival’s milestone year, the pass comes preloaded with a bonus of KRW 3,000 (approximately USD 2.25). It extends special privileges such as a 10% discount on food and beverages within the palace grounds. An additional 10% discount is available for those craving authentic local flavours at the prestigious “Korea House,” a restaurant famed for its traditional Korean cuisine.

As a unique feature, the K-Royal Palaces PASS grants one-time night admission to Gyeongbokgung Palace during the festival. This rare after-dark access allows visitors to experience the grandeur of Korea’s largest and most beautiful palace under a moonlit sky, offering a spectacular view of its illuminated pavilions and tranquil ponds.

Global Access and Convenience

Recognizing the diverse needs of its global audience, the pass can be purchased through nine significant vendors, including travel giants such as Klook, Trippose, KKDAY, Seoul Pass, HanYouMang, and Creatrip. Additionally, it is available on international platforms, ensuring overseas visitors have a hassle-free way to explore Seoul’s cultural gems.

This groundbreaking pass is more than just a ticket; it’s an invitation to delve deeper into Korea’s royal legacy, transporting visitors back to the Joseon dynasty’s illustrious past. By enhancing accessibility to Seoul’s treasured heritage sites, the K-Royal Palaces PASS is set to redefine how residents and travellers engage with Korea’s majestic history.

With a seamless blend of cultural immersion and modern convenience, the K-Royal Palaces PASS offers an unmissable opportunity for those eager to uncover the splendour of Seoul’s royal estates. As the city continues positioning itself as a premier cultural destination in Asia, this pass is a step towards creating a richer, more interconnected travel experience.

For more information on purchasing the K-Royal Palaces PASS and exploring the vibrant events at the K-Royal Culture Festival, visit Korea Heritage Service or check out the official festival website.

Written by: Charmaine Lu

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