Echoes of the Joseon Dynasty

I took this photo during the Changing of the Royal Guard Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea. The moment captures a vivid lineup of guards dressed in traditional Joseon Dynasty uniforms—vibrant red and blue robes, black hats adorned with pheasant feathers, and black face coverings. One guard in particular was holding a polished brass gong, poised to strike it in rhythm with the unfolding ritual. The ceremony took place right in front of Gwanghwamun, the palace’s main gate, where elite guards known as Sumunjang once stood watch, protecting the royal family and the palace grounds. As I framed the shot, I noticed how faithfully their attire, instruments, and movements were recreated based on historical records, lending the entire event a powerful sense of authenticity and reverence.

Through my lens, I tried to capture not just a scene, but a story deeply rooted in Korean history. Gyeongbokgung was originally built in 1395 as the principal royal palace of the newly founded Joseon Dynasty—a symbol of power and divine blessing. Although the palace was destroyed and rebuilt over time, it continues to stand as a central emblem of Korean heritage. The modern reenactment of the guard ceremony, revived by the Seoul Metropolitan Government in the 1990s, serves not only as a cultural performance but also as a living tribute to Korea’s royal legacy. With disciplined movements, martial formations, and traditional music filling the air, the ceremony bridges past and present, offering both locals and visitors a glimpse into the grandeur and depth of Korea’s dynastic history—something I was grateful to witness and capture through my camera.