From GD's heartfelt message to music-led finale, Won Il explains vision behind UNESCO's ceremony

BUSAN — Three thunderous drumbeats echoed across the stage as royal guards in flowing cheollik robes and ceremonial armor held UNESCO flags while one of them struck a traditional drum.

Behind them, a digital rendering of Gwanghwamun Gate, the main entrance to Gyeongbokgung, where the royal guard changing ceremony is traditionally held.

For the first time, the actual 42-member royal guard team from Gyeongbokgung, part of the Korea Heritage Service, was not guarding the palace but performing in Bu ...