Seoul to reenact Emperor Gojong's coronation

Marking the 120th anniversary of the proclamation of the Korean Empire, the Seoul city government will stage its first re-enactment of Emperor Gojong’s coronation ceremony this Saturday.

Gojong was the 26th and final king of the Joseon Kingdom (1392-1897) and the first emperor of the Korean Empire, reigning until 1907. He became emperor on Oct. 12, 1897.

The core coronation ceremony took place at Hwangudan, a round altar currently located next to the Westin Chosun Hotel near City Hall Plaza, where he performed the traditional ritual. The re-enactment of the ritual will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday.

Early Joseon kings performed the ritual at Hwangudan, asking the heavens for peace and prosperity for the kingdom and its people. It was halted in the 15th century and Gojong revived it when he proclaimed the Korean Empire.

This was a historic event as Gojong’s proclamation of the Korean Empire established the country as an independent state undergoing modernization.

It was a big event involving almost 220 people, and the city invited 50 citizens to take part.

At Seoul Square, the city will prepare coffee _ Gojong was the first Korean king to drink coffee.

The lobby of City Hall will show a photo exhibition on the Korean Empire Wednesday through Sunday. The city also offers a special walking tour for city residents near City Hall, providing a glimpse into the emperor’s life.