Hello everyone!
Today, I’m excited to share a truly special event that brings Korea’s rich royal tradition to life.
It’s none other than the Jongmyo Jeryeak performance, an awe-inspiring reenactment of royal ancestral rituals from the Joseon Dynasty.
This isn't just a music performance—it’s a cultural treasure that blends solemn ceremonies, court music, and traditional dance.
Designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, this event offers a rare opportunity to experience Korean royal culture in its full glory.
The 2025 season is just around the corner, so let’s dive into the details! 👑🎵
👉 Click here for the Official 2025 Jongmyo Jeryeak Performance Guide
1. What is Jongmyo Jeryeak?
You may have heard the term "Jongmyo Jeryeak" before,
but did you know that it refers to the ritual music and dance performed during ancestral rites for Korean kings and queens?
These rituals were performed in Jongmyo Shrine, the royal shrine of the Joseon Dynasty,
and they weren’t merely religious events—they symbolized royal authority, respect, and Confucian values.
The Jongmyo Jeryeak includes majestic music, slow and graceful choreography, and ceremonial order,
preserved over centuries and passed down to the present day.
Since 2001, it has been recognized as a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
When you watch the performance, it’s like stepping back in time.
Each movement, each sound, is slow, deliberate, and deeply meaningful—a spiritual time capsule from the past.
1) 2025 Jongmyo Jeryeak Performance Schedule
The 2025 performances will take place every Sunday from April 27 to October 27,
offering free admission to all visitors. What better way to spend a weekend than with living history?
- 📅 Dates: April 27, 2025 – October 27, 2025
- 🕑 Time: Every Sunday at 2:00 PM
- 📍 Location: Jongmyo Shrine, Seoul
- 💸 Admission: Free
- 🎤 Organizers: Cultural Heritage Administration & National Gugak Center
Tip: The opening day (April 27) and closing day (October 27) will feature special highlights,
so mark your calendar early!
2) Structure of the Ritual & Performance
The Jongmyo Jeryeak is not just a concert. It’s a complete ritual performance combining music, dance, and Confucian ceremonial protocol.
The ceremony follows a detailed 7-step order:
- Jeoninrye (Entrance of participants)
- Jinchallye (Preparation of offerings)
- Chohonrye (First ritual wine offering)
- Aheonrye (Second ritual wine offering)
- Jongheonrye (Final wine offering)
- Eumbokrye (Sharing of the offerings)
- Cheolbyeondu (Exit)
The music is based on two ancient compositions: Botaepyeong (symbolizing peaceful governance) and Jeongdaeeop (representing military achievements).
These are performed with traditional Korean instruments such as the pyeonjong (bronze bells), pyeongyeong (stone chimes), and large ceremonial drums.
The dances—munmu (civil dance) and mumu (military dance)—are performed by costumed dancers in perfect formation,
each step in harmony with the music’s rhythm and purpose.
It’s a performance unlike any other—full of dignity, spirituality, and history.
3) Tips for Attending the Jongmyo Jeryeak
While the event is free and open to everyone, it’s held at a sacred UNESCO World Heritage site,
so a few respectful guidelines should be followed:
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early to secure a good seat
- No food, drinks, or smoking allowed
- Photography is permitted, but no tripods
- Avoid loud conversations or moving around during the performance
- In case of rain, the ritual may be moved indoors with a music-only program
Group reservations (10+ people) are available and encouraged,
and guided tours can add deeper context to your visit.
2. Learn More Through Guided Tours
Want to understand the meanings behind the ritual?
Then don’t miss the Jongmyo guided tour program, which explains the shrine’s architecture, ritual process, and historical context.
- 🕘 Times: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM and 2:00 PM–4:00 PM
- 🗓️ Days: Every day except Tuesdays
- 🌍 Languages: Korean and English
With an expert guide, you’ll uncover hidden stories behind every pillar and courtyard.
It transforms your visit from a sightseeing stop into a cultural journey.
1) Full Performance Calendar
A total of 27 performances are scheduled for 2025.
You can find updated calendars on the official websites of the National Gugak Center or Cultural Heritage Administration.
- Opening Performance: April 27
- Regular Performances: Every Sunday at 2:00 PM
- Closing Ceremony: October 27
Occasionally, there will be special concerts and family-friendly educational programs,
so keep an eye out for announcements!
2) How to Get to Jongmyo Shrine
📍 Address: 157 Jongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
🚇 By Subway:
- Line 1: Jonggak Station, Exit 2
- Line 3: Anguk Station, Exit 5
🚌 By Bus: Get off at Jongmyo Park or Jongno 1-ga Bus Stop
🚗 Parking: No on-site parking—public transportation is highly recommended
If you’re unsure about weather changes or sudden schedule updates,
check the official blog or website after 10 AM on the day of the event.
In Conclusion
To wrap up, the 2025 Jongmyo Jeryeak Performance offers:
- Free, weekly performances at Seoul’s historic Jongmyo Shrine
- A chance to witness Korea’s royal music, dance, and ceremonial culture
- A living heritage experience recognized by UNESCO
- Optional guided tours for deeper cultural understanding
Nearby Tourist Attractions Around Jongmyo Shrine 🗺️🌸
If you're planning to visit Jongmyo Shrine, why not explore the rich cultural and historical sites located just a short walk away? The area is full of iconic landmarks where you can immerse yourself in traditional Korean heritage and enjoy scenic strolls. Let’s take a look!
1. Changdeokgung Palace
Just a 10-minute walk from Jongmyo, Changdeokgung Palace is one of the grandest royal palaces from the Joseon Dynasty.
It’s especially famous for its Secret Garden (Huwon), a stunningly serene retreat that harmonizes beautifully with nature.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture lovers alike. 🌿🏯
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
Located about 15 minutes from Jongmyo, Bukchon Hanok Village features well-preserved traditional Korean houses (hanok).
Wander the charming alleyways and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The area is also home to art studios, small galleries, and cozy tea houses—perfect for a cultural afternoon. 🏘️☕
3. Insa-dong Street
A cultural hotspot just 10 minutes from Jongmyo, Insa-dong blends the old and new with its vibrant mix of traditional craft shops, calligraphy stores, and street food vendors.
Whether you're looking for a unique souvenir or a place to enjoy traditional Korean tea, this street has it all. 🎨🛍️
4. Cheonggyecheon Stream
Only 15 minutes on foot, Cheonggyecheon is a peaceful urban stream flowing through downtown Seoul.
It’s a great spot for a relaxing walk, especially in the evening when the lights reflect on the water.
A perfect break from the bustling city streets. 🌊🌆
5. Gwanghwamun & Gyeongbokgung Palace
About 20 minutes away, you’ll find Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most iconic palace of the Joseon era.
Right in front stands Gwanghwamun Gate, and the plaza features statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin.
It’s a place full of history and grandeur—ideal for both sightseeing and learning. 👑🇰🇷
All About King Sejong the Great: The Shining Star of Joseon
All About King Sejong the Great: The Shining Star of JoseonKing Sejong the Great (世宗大王, May 15, 1397 – May 18, 1450), the fourth monarch of the Joseon Dynasty, is revered as one of the greatest and most respected rulers in Korean history. His rei
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