Seoul:The Korea Heritage Service (KHS) is yet to finalize its decision on raising admission fees for major palaces and royal tombs, with the proposed increase still under consideration.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the KHS had initially planned to announce the fee hikes in November, aiming for implementation by January 2027. This decision was driven by the relatively low admission fees compared to major heritage sites worldwide. However, the timing of the increase remains "undecided," as mentioned in a document submitted to Rep. Choi Min-hee during an annual parliamentary audit.

The Royal Palaces and Tombs Center at KHS plans to enhance visitor services starting in January, focusing on areas such as rest facilities, information desks, and services for people with disabilities. The center also intends to review the free admission programs for visitors wearing traditional hanbok and consider the potential financial impact of the fee hike on the public.

Currently, adult admission fees for Gyeongbok Palace and Changdeok Palace are set at 3,000 won (approximately US$2.20), while Changgyeong Palace, Deoksu Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine charge 1,000 won. Fees for Joseon-era royal tombs range from 500 won to 2,000 won. Despite unchanged fees since 2005, visitor numbers have increased, prompting calls for improved site preservation and visitor experiences.

The KHS has contemplated a three-stage fee increase, which includes setting fees at 5,000 won for all palaces and Jongmyo, and 3,000 won for royal tombs. In 2025, around 17.81 million people visited South Korea's major palaces, Jongmyo, and royal tombs, with approximately 69 percent entering without charge, as per agency data.