The yakbang historically served as both a pharmacy and medical treatment center exclusively for members of the royal family during the Joseon Dynasty period. This rarely accessible area of the palace will welcome visitors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday throughout the duration of the program.
Visitors to the medical quarter will receive a special treat that connects them directly to Korea's royal heritage: small cups of omija cha, a traditional tea made from dried Schisandra berries that was once enjoyed by the Joseon Dynasty royal family, which ruled Korea from 1392 to 1910. This distinctive beverage derives its name from its unique characteristic of containing five distinct flavors - sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and spicy - all within a single cup. During the summer months, this traditional tea is served chilled, making it particularly refreshing for visitors seeking relief from the heat.
The Korea Heritage Service has carefully planned the tea service to ensure all visitors have an opportunity to participate in this authentic cultural experience. Each day, exactly 200 cups of the traditional omija cha will be distributed to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. The distribution will occur in two sessions: 100 cups will be served at 10 a.m., and an additional 100 cups will be available at 2 p.m.
According to the Korea Heritage Service, this temporary opening serves a dual purpose. The primary goal is to provide palace visitors with a cool, shaded sanctuary where they can take refuge from the dangerous summer heat while exploring the extensive palace grounds. Additionally, the program aims to significantly enhance visitors' cultural experience by offering them the opportunity to taste traditional seasonal beverages that were once exclusively enjoyed within the royal court.
This initiative represents a thoughtful approach to cultural preservation and public engagement, allowing modern visitors to experience a small but authentic taste of Korean royal culture while addressing practical concerns about visitor safety during extreme weather conditions. The medical quarter's architecture and design naturally provide the cool, shaded environment that makes it an ideal refuge during the current heat wave.
For visitors interested in participating in this unique cultural experience, additional information and updates are available on Changdeokgung Palace's official website.
