By Joung Haseung

The American magazine Time has covered the opening of the former presidential compound of Cheong Wa Dae, which is also known as the Blue House.

Time on June 17 posted the article headlined "What a Concert by K-Pop Legend Rain in South Korea’s Former Presidential Compound Says About the Country’s Politics."

The article mentioned the exclusive concert of K-pop star Rain at Cheong Wa Dae, saying his gig "marks a tonal shift in how South Korea regards this bastion of power."

"While past presidents have traditionally stayed in the compound, newly-elected Yoon Suk Yeol has chosen to relocate the presidential office to a defense ministry complex in Seoul's Yongsan district, claiming that the Blue House is too secluded and thus 'out of touch' with voters," the article said.

It quoted President Yoon as saying moving out of Cheong Wa Dae will "help 'return presidential power to the people.'"

"Officials have since relaunched the Blue House as a 'relaxing retreat' for the public, who can book admission tickets online," the article said. "Inside, visitors will be able to enjoy cultural performances, tours, and even hiking trails that lead to Bugak Mountain, Cheongwadae’s scenic backdrop."

Time also highlighted the compound's history and whether the relocation would put national security at risk, saying, "For now, that leaves the Blue House to take on an unfamiliar role as a cultural destination."

"Judging from the over 770,000 visitors between opening and June 6, not all South Koreans are opposed to the change."

"Besides the Rain concert, the Cultural Heritage Administration says there will be a soap bubble extravaganza this month—even a circus," it added. 

With President Yoon's decision to relocate the presidential office, Cheong Wa Dae was opened to the public for the first time in 74 years. From its opening on May 10 to June 9 at midnight, 777,242 people visited the compound.

jhaseung@korea.kr