When History Feels Alive: Heritage architecture and tourists' sense of the past at Gyeongbokgung Palace, South Korea

Authors

  • Nur Farhani Abdullah Department of Tourism, Kulliyyah of Sustainable Tourism and Contemporary Languages, International Islamic University Malaysia; Department of Recreation and Ecotourism, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia
  • Mohd Hafizal Ismail Department of Recreation and Ecotourism, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia
  • Noor Jalilah Jumaat Department of Recreation and Ecotourism, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia,
  • Ashirali Abdirashidov Department of Islamic Economics and Finance, Pilgrimage Tourism, Faculty of Islamic Economics and International Relations, International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21834/aje-bs.v11i32.492

Keywords:

Architecture; , Tourism; , Tourist experience; , Gyeongbokgung Palace

Abstract

This study investigates the architectural tourism experience at Gyeongbokgung Palace through a non-participant observational approach. It explores how visitors engage with key architectural features, including gates, pavilions, and decorative elements, within an authentic heritage setting. The observations reveal that architectural design, spatial organization, visual appeal, and accessibility significantly influence visitor movement, engagement, and emotional responses. Intricately designed structures attract prolonged attention, while expansive open spaces encourage photography, exploration, and social interaction. The findings demonstrate that heritage architecture plays a vital role in shaping tourists' perceptions and experiences, offering valuable insights for enhancing heritage interpretation, visitor management, and sustainable cultural tourism.

References

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Published

2026-06-30

How to Cite

[1]
Abdullah, N.F. et al. 2026. When History Feels Alive: Heritage architecture and tourists’ sense of the past at Gyeongbokgung Palace, South Korea. Asian Journal of Environment-Behaviour Studies. 11, 32 (June 2026), 53–66. DOI:https://doi.org/10.21834/aje-bs.v11i32.492.

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