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On October 5, 2014 (Sun), a reenactment of Gwageo, the national civil service examination, during the Joseon Dynasty will take place atGyeonghuigung Palace, starting at 10:30 a.m. 

National civil service examinations were first administered during the Unified Shilla Dynasty (668-935) in the late 8th century. The examination gained more importance during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392), until it became the ultimate achievement of education during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897). Called Gwageo during the Joseon Dynasty, the exams measured the candidates' academic prowess of literature and techinical subjects, and were the primary route for most people to achieve a position of rank.

During the Joseon Dynasty, the examinations fell into three broad categories: literary, military, and miscellaneous categories which included subjects like medicine, geography, and translation. During the Joseon Dynasty, the Gwageo was virtually the only way to aristocracy (yangban). In theory, anyone except slaves and the lowest class were allowed to take the exams, but in reality, only those in the upper class had the luxury of spending their childhood studying for the exam. The Gwageo was exceptionally important for a yangban family, because ayangban family would lose their status if unable to produce a government offical within four generations. 

Towards the later years of the Joseon Dynasty, the Gwageo system became increasingly corrupt until it was finally abolished in 1894, along the old rank system. However, the traditions do continue in the form of university entrance exams and civil service examinations today. 

On October 5, 2014 (Sun), a reenactment of the Gwageo will take place at Gyeonghuigung Palace. Actual Korean candidates will take the examinations, as it was done during the Joseon Dynasty, and be awarded prizes for the academic prowess. (It's unfortunate that the old aristocracy system was absolished.) Come see history brought back to life and witness how the people of the past earned their rights into rank. Partake in various activities, concerts, and a procession during the festivities.