Four of Seoul’s major royal palaces are preparing to host five days of music, night walks, and living history next month as the city’s flagship heritage festival expands its offerings for international visitors. From Oct. 7 to 11, the Royal Palaces and Tombs Center and the Korea Heritage Agency will hold the 2026 Autumn K-Royal Culture Festival across Gyeongbok Palace, Changdeok Palace, Deoksu Palace and Changgyeong Palace, alongside Jongmyo Royal Shrine. Following a record-setting spring edition that drew over 725,000 visitors, organizers are leaning into evening illuminations and dedicated foreign-language programs to build on the event's global momentum. The festivities kick off on Oct. 6 outside Gyeongbok Palace’s Heungnyemun Gate with a special outdoor screening of the music program "Immortal Songs," blending traditional Korean instruments with modern K-pop performances. Each historic complex will highlight a distinct aspect of Joseon Dynasty tradition. At Gyeongbok Palace, the "Gyeongbokgung Hanbok Banquet" on Oct. 9 and 10 will center on traditional court attire, featuring m