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Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을): Seoul’s Hidden Gem

A Wandering Foodie | Blog | Travel Diary | Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을): Seoul’s Hidden Gem

Yuen Mi | A Wandering Foodie · May 27, 2017 · 33 Comments

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Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul South Korea

Quick Access: Table of Contents

  • Where Old Meets New: Bukchon Hanok Village
  • Bukchon Hanok Village History
  • What is a hanok?
  • Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village
  • Things to do in Bukchon Hanok Village
  • How to get to Bukchon Hanok Village
    • Love this post? Pin it for later!
    • Check Out These Other South Korea Travel Guides

Where Old Meets New: Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is a residential area north of central Seoul between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces that contains Seoul’s largest concentration of hanoks in one area. Nine hundred beautifully maintained traditional hanoks to be precise. It is a great place to immerse yourself in traditional Korean culture and architecture right in the heart of Seoul. Bukchon (which means “North Town”) is situated at the foot of the mountain with valleys and steep hills, giving residents and visitors alike astounding views of the hanok houses and the city of Seoul, including N Seoul Tower. It is a beautiful place to wander. To appreciate the craftsmanship and understated beauty of the hanoks with its patterned wall and tiled roofs —in complete contrast with the modern structures of the city of Seoul in the distance.

View of rooftops and mountains at Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul South Korea

View of the city and mountain from Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul South Korea

Bukchon Hanok Village History

Bukchon Village was formed during the Joseon Dynasty, between 1392 – 1910, and was originally home to noble families and high-ranking officials. Around the early 20th century during a housing shortage, large-scaled lands in the area were partitioned into smaller sections and were filled with tinier, modern hanoks. These reformed hanoks are a bit different from the traditional hanoks as they are closer together, and have incorporated modern materials such as glass and western tiles. Around 1970, during the urbanisation of Korea, many developers began tearing down hanoks and replacing them with modern structures.

A souvenir shop at Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul

In 2000, the city government conducted a detailed architectural survey of the remaining hanoks and, in December 2001, published the “Bukchon Plan.” An 84.5 billion KRW project, it was created to protect, preserve, and restore Bukchon using authentic techniques and materials. Later, in 2006, 370 billion KRW was pledged by Mayor Oh Sei-hoon to preserve the hanoks throughout Seoul. Special attention was given to Gahoe-dong 31, a ‘Special Protection Area’ which has the largest concentration of well-maintained hanoks, many built in the 1930’s. 

Fast forward to 2016, Gahoe-dong remains relatively untouched, however, across from it, many hanoks have been demolished to erect new modern two-story buildings. Many of which are now worth much more than the earlier structure. And very often, two neighbouring old hanoks would be demolished to create a big plot for a larger, two-story hybrid. Many old hanoks of the early 20th century is slowly disappearing as Bukchon continuously change and adapt to the modern Seoul. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing and exploring many of the old hanoks in this area. Hopefully, when I revisit in the near future, the older hanoks I’ve had the pleasure of exploring will remain preserved and unchanged.

What is a hanok?

A hanok is a home built in a traditional Korean style of architecture. Han means Korea, and hanok literally translate to Korean house. It is characterised by deep eaves which create shade in the summer (when the sun are higher in the sky) and allows sunlight to enter in the winter (when the sun is lower on the horizon). Although Hanoks are similar in appearance to Japanese traditional houses, there are differences that make them uniquely Korean. Mostly constructed of wood, stone, and paper with tiled roof, its neutral hues blends well with the natural surroundings, and as such, hanoks are usually left natural, undecorated, unlike the highly decorated Korean grand palaces. In a traditional hanok, windows, doors, and interior surfaces are covered with hanji, a strong translucent paper made from the mulberry tree. Many of the reformed hanoks have added modern glass in the outer window, but for the traditional hanok, hanji has the benefit of insulating the room while letting in sunlight.

Hanok rooftop view at Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul South Korea

My favourite feature of traditional hanoks is the efficient combination of Ondol and Maru floors which keep the temperature comfortable in Seoul’s ever-changing climate. Ondol is a heated stone flooring that keeps the occupants warm during cold winter months. Maru, however, is a raised wooden flooring intended to keep the air circulating so that the occupant can enjoy cooler floors in hot weather. Maru room is usually in the centre of the home and is like a living room, used primarily for receiving guests.

Ondol floors have existed in Korea before the Joseon Era, and are mainly used for the bedroom and eating area. It is made up of large stones covered by clay. Under the ‘clay’ floor are flues that carry hot air from a fireplace in the adjoining kitchen. The kitchen is slightly built lower so that the hot air can rise through the flues, to the chimney on the other side of the ondol floor, heating the large stones in the process. These particular stones are used because they keep heat for hours, warming up the room and keeping the occupants nice and cosy in the winter. In Korea today, most modern high-rise apartments have heated floors, inspired by the traditional ondol system.

Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village

I am a person that loves to get lost. To turn down an unmarked alley or corner if something attracts my eyes. Which could be a bad thing if you’re exploring a rather large city. However, Seoul is a navigation paradise for me. In general, most places of interest are all properly marked either by signs or drawings. And information booths are easily marked for you to find if you need maps, or ideas to add to your itinerary.

Hanoks with view of mountain in the backdrop at Bukchon Hanok Village

A typical alley at Bukchon Hanok Village

Traditional Korean Hanok door at Bukchon Hanok Village

At Bukchon Hanok Village, there are many narrow streets, several curves and turns, alleys and valleys in this area for you to explore. Therefore, you can very easily get lost among the numerous wooden houses and tiled roofs. I, for once, grabbed a ‘village’ map from the Bukchon Traditional Culture Centre —I didn’t have time to get lost.

Finding out which Hanoks welcome visitors for tea, and which are residential houses that don’t welcome visitor becomes a guessing game in this area as you peer through cracks in doors, and decipher signs hung on corners. Personally, I just picked a direction and began a self-guided tour with the map I picked up. Which also happens to mark tea places, museum and houses that do welcome visitors.

Things to do in Bukchon Hanok Village

Over the past decades, Bukchon has gained much popularity, becoming a favourite attraction of Korea’s trend-conscious youth. Due to its current historical importance and not to mention its beautiful aesthetic, businesses had taken this opportunity to cater to these changing mindset. As more visitors turn their eyes to Bukchon Hanok Village, entrepreneurs over the years have opened a number of fine dining restaurants, cafe, guesthouses, upscale boutiques, interesting art galleries and many cultural museum and workshop for artisans who practice traditional crafts. Many of which are housed in renovated hanoks, preserving the districts’ rich culture, tradition and history.

Walking through the winding alleys, which twist and turns between beautifully reserved, age-old-but-still-lived-in hanoks is the real charm for me. Here, children play hide and seek, students chatter at street corners, and the elderly and housewives watch on as they converse among themselves. For visitors of Bukchon, this quaint area provides an interesting look into the lives of ordinary Koreans. Where everyday life flows naturally, running its course. 

For other visitors who enjoy immersing themselves completely into a foreign culture, foreign life, here is a list of things you might enjoy as you explore this area:

Visit Baek In-Je, one of the largest restored hanok in the Gahoe-dong area of Bukchon that dates back to the Japanese occupation. Baek In-je’s house was built by Han Sangryong in 1863 using Korean black pines taken from the Yalu (Amnokgang) River. The house was built during the reign of King Gojong, the last king of the Joseon Dynasty and the first emperor of Korea. Within the compound is the anchae or inner quarters and the sarangchae, outer quarters. Upper-class hanoks usually have the anchae and the sarangchae separated, so this is unusual as both quarters are together. The sarangchae is connected to the anchae by a wooden passageway. Across from the anchae is the gate of the haengnangchae, the servants quarters. This grand hanok also features a beautifully manicured garden. The museum is open from Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and admission are free.

Samcheong Dong at Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul South Korea
Gahoe Dong (Harmony) Alley is usually busy with locals and tourist, especially on weekends. Here, you can witness the beautiful contrast between modern and traditional Seoul, and local women enjoying a stroll in their traditional hanboks. This popular alley looks down on metropolitan Seoul with its tall office towers and modern hotels.

Spring blossoms at Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul South Korea

Make your way to Hanbok Costume Rental at Bukchon-ro 12 gil where you will be able to rent, wear and photograph yourself in Korean traditional hanbok. The hanbok rental fee is 7,000 KRW per person, however, since this is not a studio, no camera will be provided. Take note that this is probably the cheapest costume rental option that you will find because it’s basically just a rental store. No camera. No cheesy background. Instead, you are to photograph yourself in front of a real hanok house. Which, in my honest opinion, is better than those cheesy computerised backgrounds at Myeongdong or Insadong which cost a whopping 55,000 KRW per person. 

Visit the many museums scattered, and tucked away inside the hanoks throughout Bukchon Hanok Village, such as the Museum of Korean Art, Museum of Korean Embroidery, and Bukchon Traditions to name a few.

Before the sun starts setting, climb to the top of Gahoe-dong to watch as old Seoul meets new Seoul under the golden glow of the setting sun. Standing surrounded by traditional hanok atop a hill while viewing the contrasting modern Seoul in the distant, including N Seoul Tower, is a sight to behold.

Make your way up to the highest point in the village, where you’ll be able to look down and see all the old tile roofing of the hanoks.

Have a romantic date. If you’re travelling with your boyfriend, girlfriend or lover, purchase couple rings, couple t-shirts, and couple undies to enjoy a romantic moment atop the many cafes in the area,  or even a viewpoint catered specifically for couples. This country is made for lovebirds.

Insadong near Bukchon Hanok Village

Souvenir shop at Insadong near Bukchon Hanok Village

From Bukchon, make your way to Insadong, a street nearby that really maintain the essence of Korea. Insadong is home to many stores housing Korean handicrafts, traditional tea, temple food, and many other traditional Korean items and experiences.

Insadong flower shop near Bukchon Hanok Village

Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을): Seoul's Hidden Gem

How to get to Bukchon Hanok Village

You can get to the Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul by taking the subway to Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3). Take exit 3 and head to your right. After about 200 meters you will see large information signs that begin the Bukchon Village Walking Tour.

While Namsangol Hanok Village is a replication of a traditional Korean village, Bukchon Hanok Village is the real residential area with 900 hanoks. And much of the residents have chosen to retain their traditional lifestyle. Walking around, you will notice many women strolling around in their hanbok (Korean traditional outfit). Bukchon is my most favourite traditional place in Seoul. Where I would actually spend a whole day walking alone, browsing, snapping pictures and taking breaks at the many scenic cafes.

Have you been to the Bukchon Hanok Village, or are planning a trip there? Let us know about your Seoul experiences in the comment section below!

Love this post? Pin it for later!

Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을): Seoul's Hidden Gem

Check Out These Other South Korea Travel Guides

Exploring N Seoul Tower, Love Locks and Alive Museum on Namsan Mountain
Namsangol Hanok Village: All You Need to Know
Ultimate Travel Guide to Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon Secret Garden

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Comments

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    • Yuen Mi | A Travel Diary says

      November 24, 2017 at 9:16 AM

      Thank you! Glad you liked all the Korea post. Good luck with the planning. South Korea’s beautiful with so many things to do, you’ll love it. I actually didn’t want to come back but work was calling. I will definitely write more post once I get a chance. Thanks for subscribing!

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  17. LaiAriel R. Samangka ( Thelittlelai: Beyond limits) says

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    Wow, you brought us to this side of the world by providing us the great travel tips. You have given us a chance to take a glimpse on what to expect in Bukchon Hanok Village. Truly, this is such a nice and lovely place with all the stunning scenery to enjoy. Thank you so much for sharing this with us.

    Reply
    • Yuen Mi | A Travel Diary says

      June 12, 2017 at 10:08 AM

      Thank you. Glad you were able to enjoy a different part of the world through this post.

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  18. Kim @ Those Who Wandr says

    May 31, 2017 at 1:13 AM

    This is such an extensive guide of Bukchon Hanok Village! I love how you captured this village, your photos are so vibrant! The “We are young” mural makes my heart melt.

    Reply
    • Yuen Mi || A Travel Diary says

      May 31, 2017 at 5:52 PM

      Thank you! I loved that street art the moment I saw it too. It’s such a powerful statement.

      Reply
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    I love how articulate you are, and those pictures are so surreal Not just saying it. Very well composed.

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    • Yuen Mi || A Travel Diary says

      May 31, 2017 at 5:52 PM

      Thank you so much!

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  20. Bella WW says

    May 29, 2017 at 7:57 AM

    Amazing pictures and useful information. I love the architecture of the buildings, and I would love to visit one day.

    Reply
    • Yuen Mi || A Travel Diary says

      May 31, 2017 at 5:54 PM

      Hope you do have a chance to visit. It is a beautiful country with so many things to offer.

      Reply
  21. POLO&Lifestyle Magazine says

    May 28, 2017 at 10:27 AM

    Would love to visit Seoul after your amazing article.

    Reply
  22. Mel says

    May 28, 2017 at 9:03 AM

    Your pictures are amazing!! Looks like an amazing place to explore. Sadly I’ve only been to Seoul airport and not been out to see the city or the areas close by. Think I’m going to have to plan a proper stop over next time!

    Reply
    • Yuen Mi || A Travel Diary says

      May 31, 2017 at 5:58 PM

      Thank you! Even a 12-hour layover would be great. The drive from the airport to Seoul is only 1.5 hrs, so if you plan your itinerary right, you can actually fit a lot of things in.

      Reply
  23. Juliette | Namastay Traveling says

    May 27, 2017 at 7:32 PM

    I loved reading about your suggestions. I’ve never been to this side of the world before and it’s make me want to go asap!

    Reply
  24. Eric || The Bucket List Project says

    May 27, 2017 at 7:14 PM

    I love the roofs of the traditional Hanoks. How lovely that they keep their heritage alive still. I would love to walk around and just get lost amid the street markets and to experience a traditional tea.

    Reply
  25. Maya Maceka says

    May 27, 2017 at 1:38 PM

    Wow, these are some beautiful photos! Seoul has been on my bucket list for a long time. I am saving this post for later so I can remember to check out this village. It looks amazing!

    Reply
    • Yuen Mi || A Travel Diary says

      May 31, 2017 at 6:01 PM

      Thank you! Glad you’re inspired to travel. Seoul’s a beautiful country with a mix of modern and traditional. And probably one of the best music scene I’ve encountered. You will love it.

      Reply

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