Seoul: On a regular weekday, a long queue formed in front of Cheong Wa Dae in central Seoul with people eager to take a glimpse around the historic building that served the past 12 presidents of South Korea. "I rushed here to see Cheong Wa Dae before it closes to the public," said Kim Byung-taek, 65, who was seen taking a photo in front of the main building with his family on Monday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Cheong Wa Dae, which opened to the public in May 2022, was teeming with people who shared Kim's hopes of witnessing the historic site for what may be the last time before it returns to its role at the center of politics. The museum received 427,780 visitors in May alone, more than twofold the number of visitors in the same period last year, according to the Cheong Wa Dae Foundation.
The iconic building served as the official residence and executive office of the country's presidents for over 70 years, with its history dating back to 1948. It first opened its doors to visitors after former President Yoon Suk Yeol relocated the presidential office and residence. Yoon aimed to dismantle the remnants of the imperial presidency embedded in Cheong Wa Dae and improve communication with the public.
Yoon's relocation efforts, however, were mired in controversy. While he estimated the cost at 49.6 billion won, data from the National Assembly Budget Office suggested the relocation cost about 325 billion won as of 2024. The Board of Audit and Inspection also found legal violations in the process, including the involvement of a company with ties to the former first lady in renovation works.
Some experts have criticized the relocation to Yongsan, citing its symbolic ties to the previous administration and security concerns. Professor Ahn Chang-mo noted the decision to place the presidential office in a location easily observable from outside, while Professor Kim Young-ook highlighted Yongsan's historical significance as a military base.
With the inauguration of President Lee Jae-myung, the focus has shifted to whether he will move into Cheong Wa Dae. Lee expressed intent to revamp and relocate to Cheong Wa Dae while temporarily using the Yongsan office. Experts largely agree that returning to Cheong Wa Dae represents a realistic option for the new administration.
Alternative suggestions include relocating the presidential office to Sejong, with President Lee Jae-myung pledging to make it the administrative capital. However, experts consider this a long-term plan, requiring constitutional amendments or public consensus.
The public's anticipation surrounding Cheong Wa Dae is evident, as reservations for tours are fully booked. Visitors like Kim, touring the site with her husband, hope for a resolution that avoids the controversies associated with Yongsan.