Jongmyo Daeje is Korea’s highest state ritual, honoring the memorial tablets of Joseon Dynasty and Korean Empire royalty at Jongmyo Shrine. The event integrates royal ancestral rites, music, and dance, and has been recognized by UNESCO since 2001 as a representative intangible cultural heritage. Since 2006, Jongmyo Daeje has evolved into an international cultural event, welcoming distinguished guests from Korea and abroad. The Korea Heritage Service, in partnership with the Korea Heritage Agency and the Jongmyo Daeje Organizing Committee, aims to promote both the tangible and intangible values of Jongmyo as a living heritage.
The expanded 2026 program will allow more visitors to experience the historical and cultural significance of Jongmyo Shrine. Large screens will broadcast the rites live at key locations for those unable to attend in person, including Yeongnyeongjeon Hall, the Main Hall, and Heungnyemun Square at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Seating for the main ancestral rite is divided into advance reservation and on-site options, with reservations available from April 17 via Ticketlink. The event also features special performances, such as the Royal Ancestral Ritual Music Nighttime Performance and Jongmyo Myohyeollye musical, which have drawn significant public interest.
Jongmyo Daeje is held annually on the first Sunday of May, with the 2026 ceremony scheduled for May 3 at 2:00 p.m. The day’s program begins at 10:00 a.m. with the ancestral rite at Yeongnyeongjeon Hall, followed by a royal procession from Gwanghwamun Gate to Jongmyo Shrine, and concludes with the main ancestral rite and public viewing of the Sinsil. Jongmyo Week, running from April 25 to May 3, includes pre-events and performances, with all seats for the nighttime ritual music performance selling out within 30 seconds of reservation opening.
Frequently asked questions include how to attend the main ritual, which requires advance reservation or on-site allocation, and where to find live broadcasts, available at designated locations and on YouTube. For further information, visitors can consult the Korea Heritage Service and Korea Heritage Agency websites or call the Royal Palaces Program Help Desk. The Korea Heritage Service is committed to systematic preservation and expanding opportunities for public engagement with Jongmyo’s heritage.
The Korea Heritage Service’s expanded programming and accessibility measures for Jongmyo Daeje 2026 reflect a proactive strategy to promote Korea’s royal heritage. By increasing public seating, broadcasting the event live, and offering special performances, the agency is responding to high public demand and fostering greater cultural participation. The rapid sell-out of tickets for ritual music performances indicates strong national interest. Continued systematic preservation and engagement will help sustain Jongmyo Shrine’s intangible and tangible values for future generations.