Presidential office begins return to Cheong Wa Dae

The presidential office on Monday officially began its relocation back to Cheong Wa Dae, with the move expected to be completed around Christmas.

According to reporters covering the top office, presidential aides and staff were seen packing and transporting boxes, while the staff cafeteria and convenience store had already halted operations in preparation for the move. Press facilities are also preparing to relocate, with the briefing room scheduled to move to the Chunchugwan press center at Cheong Wa Dae between Dec. 20 and 23.

The president’s residence in Hannam-dong, however, is expected to move at a later date, as security and protection requirements will take more time to complete.

The move marks the end of the “Yongsan era,” which began in May 2022 when the previous Yoon Suk Yeol administration decided not to use Cheong Wa Dae, the traditional compound that had housed South Korea's presidential office and residence for many decades.

Following the decision, Cheong Wa Dae, or Blue House, was opened to the public on May 10 that year and has since attracted 8.52 million visitors. Major facilities, including the State Guest House, the Nokjiwon garden and the traditional Sangchunjae hall, were also made accessible to the public.

Since being fully closed to the public in August this year, the Blue House has undergone necessary interior maintenance as well as security and facility upgrades.