The Patched-Up Interior of Geunjeong House, Kyungbok Palace

The three years and eight months of repair works, such as the restoration of the pillars, result in a good-looking interior. On November 10, the Geunjeong House was opened up to the press. “The biggest problem of Geunjeong House was the corrosion of the pillars which holds up the whole building. It was due to the heavy stone and earth fixed into the space between the rafters and the roof-tiling,” remarked the chief carpenter, Shin Eung-soo, who took charge of the repair works, adding “We have focused on cutting down 60 percent of the ceiling weight, in order to increase safety.” Starting on November 14, the Geunjeong House will be opened to the public.

kjh@donga.com