Blue House Buzz: South Koreans Flock as Presidential Return Looms

In recent months, hundreds of thousands of South Koreans have flocked to the Blue House in central Seoul, eager for a final glimpse of the historic site before it resumes its role as the presidential residence.

Lee Jae Myung, who won a snap election on June 3, intends to move into the Blue House soon, with access to some parts of the compound restricted from mid-July. This decision marks the end of an era begun by former president Yoon Suk Yeol, who had controversially shifted the presidential office outside the compound, sparking a passionate debate around its feng shui.

Dubbed 'Cheong Wa Dae' in Korean, the Blue House is renowned for its blue tiles and picturesque surroundings. It has seen a renewed surge in visitors, with recent months recording up to 430,000 visitors per month, as citizens rush to experience the site ahead of anticipated changes with the incoming administration.

(With inputs from agencies.)