Gov't 'undecided' on plan to raise admission fees to royal palaces, tombs

The government is undecided on plans to raise admission fees for major royal palaces and tombs in South Korea, according to a statement by the Korea Heritage Service (KHS). The KHS had planned to announce the fee increases in November, with the changes set to take effect in January 2027. This decision was based on the relatively low current fees when compared to fees at major heritage sites around the world.

However, the timing of the fee hikes remains undecided, as revealed in a document submitted to Rep. Choi Min-hee for an annual parliamentary audit. The KHS's Royal Palaces and Tombs Center stated that instead of implementing the fee increases, they will focus on enhancing visitor services in January. This review comes after concerns were raised about the lack of rest areas, information desks, and disability-friendly facilities at these sites.

Additionally, the reservation systems were found to be insufficiently equipped. Huh Min, chief of the KHS, confirmed that the team is currently addressing these shortcomings. It is worth noting that admission fees for these royal sites have remained unchanged since 2005.