If you’re planning a journey to South Korea, especially in the capital city of Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village is an absolute must-see for all the travelers who desire to catch a glimpse of an urban environment of Seoul over 600 years ago. A survey of approximately 2000 visitors was conducted in November, 2011 by the Seoul Metropolitan Government. The tourists responded by stating that exploring the compact yet stunning streets of Bukchon was their fourth favored activity when in Seoul. The village has been showcased on television programs which have caused an increase in the number of visitors. In 2012, approximately 600,000 visitors are claimed to have explored Bukchon Hanok Village.
About Bukchon Hanok Village
Situated in Seoul, South Korea and renowned for its lengthy and illustrious past, the Bukchon Hanok Village is located at the pinnacle of a hill which is enclosed by Jongmyo Royal Palace, Gyeongbok Palace, and Changdeok Palace. It is a conventional village that is brimming with numerous Hanoks – traditional Korean houses as well as alleys. It portrays a 600-year-old urban settlement and is preserved with meticulous care. In the Korean language, Bukchon essentially denotes a northern village and it is the neighborhood to the south of which is situated the Jongno and the Cheonggyecheon Stream.
The Bukchon area is said to have comprised of five neighborhoods – Jae-dong, Gye-dong, Insadong, Gahoe-dong, and Wonseo-dong. These neighborhoods were where the residences of the nobility and high-ranking bureaucrats and additional officials were situated during the Joseon Dynasty. After calamities such as wars, the area was inhabited by common people. The village also has many Hanok restaurants which emit an ambiance from the time of Joseon dynasty providing tea and traditional cuisines that you must surely explore. There are numerous captivating cultural centers and museums here as well. Without any Bukchon Hanok Village admission fee, your experience at this place would undeniably be an unforgettable one!
Places to Explore in Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village houses numerous cultural centers and museums that exhibit the culture of the Joseon Dynasty. It’s a distinctive presentation of the dynasty architecture and way of life. One of the primary attractions in Seoul, it also offers a contrast between contemporary and traditional aspects of the city.
1. Bukchon Traditional Culture Center
A hanok that encompasses a compound within it, the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center serves the purpose of illuminating the values, history, and societal customs of the village. The diverse programs scheduled in a day include handicraft, gugak, a showcase of Bukchan hanok, and culture in the hall and a tea ceremony. Furthermore, various cultural seminars are also arranged. These seminars are organized with the assistance of the City of Seoul and Bukchon Cultural Center.
Location: South Korea, Seoul, Jongno-gu, Gye-dong, 계동길 37Contact: 82 2 2133 1371
Essential Reading: 5 Places Worth Exploring On Korea Tour-Land Of Morning Serenity
2. Gahoe Museum
A personal museum, it was established in 2002. Over 1500 artifacts are kept in the Gahoe Museum, including 150 classical books, 250 paintings by folk artists, 750 amulets, and 250 other cultural items. The primary exhibition hall that showcases traditional aspects of the Joseon Dynasty is also the venue for various exhibitions. One of the more popular workshops organized here is the Gahoe Folk Painting Workshop where individuals are instructed in the technique of folk art painting.
Location: 52 Bukchon-ro, Gahoe-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South KoreaContact: 82 2 741 0466
3. Bukchon Asian Art Museum
It is a place frequented by numerous inquisitive tourists for the exquisite artifacts on display. The Bukchon Asian Art Museum exhibits 200 works of Chinese art, 150 works of Korean contemporary art, and 2500 old documents from the Joseon dynasty. It provides a glimpse into the aesthetics and cultural values of the Joseon era, as well as the evolution of those aesthetics and styles over time.
Location: 76 Bukchon-ro 11-gil, Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South KoreaContact: 82 2 486 0191
4. Donglim Knot Museum
The Donglim Museum was founded in 2004 during the month of April. In addition to showcasing various items from the Joseon era such as adornments for belts, yarn, bags, ropes, traditional Korean clothing, and Korean decorative knots, the museum also offers a Maedeup Workshop led by Sim Yeong-mi, the museum’s curator. They provide both one-day workshops and longer programs for individuals who have an interest.
Location: 10, Bukchon-ro 12-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 110-260, South Korea
Contact: 82 2 3673 2778
Planning your vacation but unsure of where to go? These travel narratives assist you in finding your ultimate journey!
Authentic travel experiences. Genuine accommodations. Helpful advice to assist you in making the correct decision.
