Royal Feast by Crown Prince of Joseon: 'Jinjakrye' Set for Sept. 4-5

연합뉴스 / 2024-08-27 10:33:20

▲ This photo, provided by the Cultural Heritage Administration (CHA) on Aug. 27, 2024, shows last year's reenactment event of "Jinjakrye Ceremony of the Year of Muja (1828) at Yeongyeongdang," a royal feast prepared by the crown prince of Joseon. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, Aug. 27 (Yonhap) -- A royal feast from 196 years ago will be reenacted in the heart of the Joseon Dynasty's royal palace.

The Cultural Heritage Administration's Palaces and Tombs Division announced on the 27th that the "Jinjakrye Ceremony of the Year of Muja (1828) at Yeongyeongdang," a royal feast originally held during King Sunjo's reign, will be performed at Yeongyeongdang in the rear garden of Changdeokgung Palace on September 4-5.

'Jinjakrye' refers to a ceremonial event where subjects present the king with alcohol and food on special occasions as a gesture of respect. This performance reenacts a royal celebration held by Crown Prince Hyomyeong in 1828 to honor the 40th birthday of his mother, Queen Sunwon, at Yeongyeongdang.

The event, directed by Heo Young-il, Professor Emeritus at the Korea National University of Arts, along with the World Ethnic Dance Research Institute, is based on records from the Sunjomujajinjak Uigwe (Records of the Jinjakrye of 1828). The performance has been meticulously reconstructed, showcasing traditional dances, music, and attire from the period.

This year's performance will debut the restored myeonbok, a ceremonial robe worn by the crown prince or king during significant rituals and ceremonies, based on a portrait of Crown Prince Hyomyeong. The myeonbok represents the highest level of formal royal attire.

The entire sequence of the Jinjakrye as conducted at Yeongyeongdang will be presented, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the royal rituals of the Joseon Dynasty. The performance is open to anyone visiting the rear garden of Changdeokgung Palace, although an additional admission fee to the garden is required.