Gyeongbokgung Palace opens historic royal library to public through fall
by Yoo Na-hyunPosted : May 13, 2026, 17:34Updated : May 13, 2026, 17:36
Visitors look around Jibokjae, known as King Gojong's royal library, at Gyeongbokgung Palace in central Seoul on May 13, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
SEOUL, May 13 (AJP) - Seoul's historic Gyeongbokgung Palace has opened its doors to a hidden gem, Jibokjae, a former royal library that was once off-limits to the public. Starting Wednesday, visitors can explore the storied space as part of a special program running through the end of October.
Used by King Gojong as his study and office, Jibokjae also served as a reception space for foreign envoys during the Joseon Dynasty.
Since 2016, Jibokjae has opened seasonally as a small library, where visitors can browse historical records and books in a peaceful setting. Its distinctive architecture also sets it apart from the other palace buildings. Visitors can also take a stroll around its adjoining pavilions.
The library is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. excluding Mondays and Tuesdays as well as certain public holidays. It will also be closed during the hot summer months from June to August.
A visitors takes a picture at Jibokjae, known as King Gojong's royal library, at Gyeongbokgung Palace in central Seoul on May 13, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Visitors look around Jibokjae, known as King Gojong's royal library, at Gyeongbokgung Palace in central Seoul on May 13, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Visitors look around Jibokjae, known as King Gojong's royal library, at Gyeongbokgung Palace in central Seoul on May 13, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Visitors look around Jibokjae, known as King Gojong's royal library, at Gyeongbokgung Palace in central Seoul on May 13, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
