Visitors taste bitter exile at Gyeongbokgung royal kitchen

Participants take part in a royal cuisine experience during the special program “Yuju Spring in the Saenggwabang” at the Saenggwabang kitchen inside Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul on April 29 2026 AJP Yoo Na-hyun 20260429 — Participants take part in a royal cuisine experience during the special program “Yuju: Spring in the Saenggwabang” at the Saenggwabang kitchen inside Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul on April 29. 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun. 2026.04.29

SEOUL, April 30 (AJP) - Visitors gather at the Saenggwabang kitchen inside Gyeongbokgung Palace on April 30 to participate in a program exploring the life of Danjong, the sixth ruler of the Joseon Dynasty. The event, titled "Yuju: Spring in the Saenggwabang," runs from April 27 to May 3.

This historical program has gained significant attention following the massive success of the film The King's Warden. The movie, which depicts the tragic isolation of the young monarch, has surpassed 16 million admissions to become the second most-watched film in South Korean history. The current "Danjong syndrome" has transformed the palace kitchen into a space for historical empathy. While Saenggwabang is typically known for serving elaborate royal desserts, this event pivots to the modest diet the king endured during his exile.

Danjong was a child monarch who was deposed by his uncle and sent into a lonely exile in Yeongwol. The program uses food to bridge the gap between modern visitors and the king's final, difficult years. The centerpiece of the experience is a simple porridge made from eosuri. This wild herb was a staple for the king when refined palace ingredients were no longer available to him.

Royal cuisine is served during the special program “Yuju Spring in the Saenggwabang” at the Saenggwabang kitchen inside Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul on April 29 AJP Yoo Na-hyun 20260429 — Royal cuisine is served during the special program “Yuju: Spring in the Saenggwabang” at the Saenggwabang kitchen inside Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul on April 29. AJP Yoo Na-hyun. 2026.04.29

The dish offers a sensory connection to the past. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on the king's humanity through the bitter, earthy flavors of the greens, a stark contrast to the surrounding palace grandeur. Expert commentaries provided during the meal detail the historical context of the food. These stories help guests visualize the young king's life away from the capital.

The special event is managed by the Korea Heritage Service and the Royal Palaces and Tombs Center. The program is scheduled to conclude its limited run on May 3.

Yoo Na-hyun

Visitors taste bitter exile at Gyeongbokgung royal kitchen

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