12 Famous Korean Folk Villages – A Journey Through Time

Are you looking for the best guide to Korean Folk Villages? We gotcha! The rich fabric of Korea’s history is revealed right before you. Enter a world where time seems to stand still instead of moving forward. The Korean folk villages, which are dispersed over the scenic landscapes of South Korea, provide a one-of-a-kind and entrancing peek into the rich history and cultural legacy of the nation.

By painstakingly recreating ancient Korean life, these living museums allow visitors to experience a journey back in time to the days of dynasties and passing down ancestral knowledge. From the thatched roofs of Jeju Folk village to the peaceful atmosphere of Andong Hahoe, each village serves as a gateway to gaining an insight into the essence of Korean culture. As we embark on this journey through the most famous Korean folk villages, you should get ready to be enthralled by the surviving customs and ageless beauty of a place deep in history. Let’s start our journey!

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Yongin Korean Folk Village (한국민속촌)

The Korean Folk Village serves as a living monument to Korea’s cultural and historical wealth and is thus much more than a mere tourist attraction. Built on an expansive 243 acres in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, this attraction has been open to the public since 1974 to introduce visitors to traditional Korean culture and way of life.

As one of the most famous Korean folk villages, the village has more than 260 traditional houses. It is reminiscent of those found in different regions of the country during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897) and is designed to emulate the rural ambiance of that period. Each house has been painstakingly built with materials, techniques, and architectural styles that reflect its original occupants’ social class, locality, and lifestyle. This level of detail is evident in every house.

Nowadays, Korea’s fast urbanization and modernization in the twentieth century prompted this deliberate endeavor to maintain and showcase the diverse fabric of Joseon Dynasty life. Anxieties over the potential erasure of traditional Korean culture grew as the nation modernized and urbanized. Hence, the Korean Folk Village was founded; it is a museum in which visitors like you can immerse yourselves in traditional Korean culture and history.

Information about Yongin Korean Folk Village (한국민속촌)

• Address: 90 Minsokchon-ro, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
• Opening hours:
  • February to April: 10:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.;
  • From May to September: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.;
  • October: 10:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.;
  • From November to January: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Admission fees:
  • Adults and Adolescents: 32,000 won (~24.47 USD)
  • Children: 26,000 won (~19.88 USD)
  • Age 65 years and older and Disabled Visitors: 22,000 won (~16.82 USD)
• Website: koreanfolk.co.kr

Famous spots in Yongin Korean Folk Village (한국민속촌)

• Minsongchon Gate, the magnificent entry to the village, is characterized by its traditional architecture and offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape.
• The traditional Korean five-story pagoda inside the entrance gate provides a calm and peaceful ambiance.
• Central Village is a historic neighborhood home to stores and houses that are representative of the Gyeonggi-do region.
• Eastern Village is the culture of the Gangwon-do region, which includes a traditional mill and a house with a thatched roof.
• In Southern Village, customs such as stilted houses and traditional wells are prevalent in the Jeolla-do region.
• Visit the Northern Village to learn about the way of life in the Gyeongsang-do region, which includes a conventional kiln and a house once occupied by fishermen.

Nagan Eupseong Folk Village (순천 낙안읍성)

Situated in Suncheon, South Jeolla Province, Nagan Eupseong Folk Village is a cultural and historical monument. Culturally significant and superbly conserved, it is one of the best examples of a Joseon Dynasty fortified village and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The settlement’s founding dates back to the early Joseon Dynasty in the 14th century. Its original purpose was to secure the area from potential invaders and to serve as a political, commercial, and military hub for the neighboring regions.

Nagan Eupseong Folk Village, one of the most famous Korean folk villages, is unique among restored historical sites in that it has preserved most of its original architecture and design. The villagers erected massive stone walls around the village as a defensive measure. Besides houses of worship, administration buildings, guesthouses, and storage facilities remain within these walls, unchanged from ages past.

Information about Nagan Eupseong Folk Village (순천 낙안읍성)

• Address: 6-4 Pyeongchon-ri, Nagan-myeon, Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-do, South Korea
• Opening hours:
  • January, November to December: 09:00 to 17:30
  • February to April, October: 09:00 to 18:00
  • May to September: 08:30 to 18:30
• Admission fees:
  • General Admission: 4,000 won (~ 3.05 USD) for individuals, while 3,000 won (~ 2.29 USD) for groups
  • Youth, Military, Middle, and High School Students: 2,500 won (~ 1.91 USD) for individuals, whereas 2,000 won (~ 1.52 USD) for groups
  • Children: 1,500 won (~1.14 USD) for individuals; besides, 1,000 won (~0.76 USD) for groups
• Website: suncheon.go.kr

Famous spots in Nagan Eupseong Folk Village (순천 낙안읍성)

• Nagan Eupseong Gate is the village’s main entrance and features traditional Korean architecture.
• The Chodang (Thatched-Roof House) is a traditional house in Korea that exemplifies the straightforward way of life.
• The Yangban House is a more sophisticated housing structure associated with the upper class by its stunning architecture and decorations.
• Additionally, a collection of relics and displays showcases the history and culture of Nagan Eupseong in the Nagan Eupseong Folk Museum.
• The Nagan Eupseong Herb Garden is a stunning garden that has a considerable number of different medicinal plants.
• One of the most beautiful trails in the area, the Nagan Eupseong Nature Trail winds its way through the surrounding woodland.

Andong Hahoe Folk Village (안동하회마을)

An essential component of South Korea’s cultural legacy is the Andong Hahoe Folk Village. This picturesque town in North Gyeongsang Province, Andong, takes you on a trip through time, allowing you to experience the Joseon Dynasty’s impact on Korean culture firsthand. This Korean Folk Village has been around since the 1600s. Since its founding by the Ryu clan of Pungsan, the village has been inhabited by family members and their successors. The settlement of Hahoe, which means “meandering river” in Korean, is amid the winding Nakdong River. This Folk Village, one of the most famous Korean folk villages, is a must-visit for anybody looking to grasp the depth and beauty of Korean history and culture.

The hanok, or traditional Korean dwellings, are the village’s defining feature; numerous are over 600 years old and in excellent condition. Furthermore, the remarkable preservation efforts have transformed the village into a living museum, offering priceless insights into the Joseon Dynasty’s architectural styles, living conditions, and social structures. Ancient Korean practice of Fengshui is on display in the village’s design. Additionally, the layout of Hahoe Village follows the “baesanimsu” principle, which states that a community should be situated with mountains behind it and facing the water to attract good fortune and safety.

Information about Andong Hahoe Folk Village (안동하회마을)

• Address: 186 Jeonseo-ro, Pungcheon-myeon, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
• Opening hours:
  • Summer Season: 09:00 – 18:00
  • Winter Season: 09:00 – 17:00
• Admission fees:
  • General Admission
    • Children: 1,500 won (~ 1.14 USD) for individuals, 1,200 won for groups (~0.92 USD)
    • Students: 2,500 won (~1.90 USD) for individuals, 2,000 won for groups (~ 1.52 USD) 
    • Adults: 5,000 won for individuals (~ 3.80 USD), 4,000 won for groups (~ 3.05 USD)
  • Citizens of Andong (plus)
    • Children: 400 won for individuals (~ 0.31 USD) 300 won for groups (~ 0.23 USD)
    • Students: 500 won for individuals (~ 0.38 USD), 400 won for groups (~ 0.31 USD)
    • Adults: 1,000 won for individuals (~ 0.76 USD), 900 won for groups (~ 0.69 USD)
• Website: hahoe.or.kr

Famous spots in Andong Hahoe Folk Village (안동하회마을)

• Hahoe Mask Museum is home to traditional Korean masks for activities such as masked dances and performances.
• Okjajeong Pavilion is a picturesque pavilion that overlooks the Nakdong River and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding community.
• Yangjindang House from the Joseon Dynasty is famous for its one-of-a-kind architectural design and historical value.
• Dosan Seowon Confucian Academy is also where the well-known Neo-Confucian scholar Yi Hwang was born.
• Bongjeongsa Temple is a Buddhist house of worship that has been around for over 1,700 years.
• Cheonghakdang House and its exquisite woodwork carvings and stunning murals that decorate its walls.
• Hahoe Folk Village Traditional Market is lively, providing traditional Korean goods, crafts, souvenirs, and local food. Additionally, it is located in the heart of the village.
• At the Hahoe Village Traditional Crafts Workshop, you can learn about weaving, papermaking, and ceramics.

Yangdong Folk Village (양동마을)

The Yangdong Folk Village (양동마을), situated in the peaceful valleys of Gyeongju, is also a gateway to the past that exquisitely captures the diversity of Korean history and culture. This village’s observance of ancient Korean Fengshui principles is one of its most striking features. This village’s layout follows the “baesanimsu” principle, which dictates that buildings should face a river and have the mountain in the back. This placement is thought to provide good fortune and safety. Pungsu ideals, which emphasize the balance between the natural environment and human settlement, are also strongly reflected in the layout.

With more than 160 hanok houses scattered throughout the mountainous terrain, this traditional village in South Korea offers a broad environment perfect for cultural research. Even though many of the original clans’ descendants still call Yangdong Folk Village home, the village stands as a monument to Korea’s illustrious history regardless of the passing of time or distance. If you’re hoping to untangle the cultural tapestry of Korea, then you must visit this village! It preserves historic architectural styles, traditional customs, and an old-world charm that takes visitors on an immersive trip through Korea’s rich history.

Information about Yangdong Folk Village (양동마을)

• Address: 91 Yangdongmaeuran-gil, Gangdong-myeon, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
• Opening hours:
  • Summer season (April to September) – 9:00 to 19:00.
  • Winter season (October to March) – 09:00 to 18:00.
• Admission fees:
  • Adults: 4,000 won (~3.02 USD) for individuals and 3,400 won (~2.27 USD) for groups.
  • Teenagers and Soldiers: 2,000 won (~1.51 USD) for individuals and 1,700 won (~1.28 USD) for groups.
  • Children: KRW 1,500 (~1.13 USD) for individuals and KRW 1,200 for groups.
• Website: yangdong.invil.org

Famous spots in Yangdong Folk Village (양동마을)

• Tangdong Byeongsan Seowon, also known as the Confucian Academy, is rich in historical value and features stunning architecture.
• Over five hundred traditional hanoks from the Joseon Dynasty can be found in the Yangdong Folk Village Traditional Houses. These houses showcase a variety of architectural styles and have a charming historical presence.
• The Yangdong Branch of the Gyeongju National Museum is where you learn about the village’s history by displaying items and presentations.
• The Gyeongju World Folk Arts Festival is an annual event in May that celebrates folk arts worldwide. 

Jeju Folk Village (제주민속촌)

Founded in the 1980s, the Jeju Folk Village’s primary objective has always been to showcase and preserve Jeju’s distinctive cultural heritage. The village captures life from the late 19th to the early 20th century, a time widely referred to as the Joseon Dynasty, and represents the island’s rural past. The village depicts the tranquility and ease of life in a rural community, which was prevalent during this time in Jeju.

Different parts of the village stand for different eras in Jeju’s history. This division includes mountain, Hill-Country, Fishing, and Shamanism Villages. Carefully selected artifacts, tools, and over a hundred traditional homes from all over the island are displayed in each section, each meant to portray a particular way of life.

There is much more to see at the Jeju Folk Village than meets the eye. It is a thriving center for the arts that promotes and protects Jeju’s distinctive history. Its rich historical and cultural treasures and its faithful portrayal of Jeju’s traditional lifestyle make it an essential stop for anybody interested in Jeju Island’s unique culture and history. Plus, the importance of the village goes beyond Jeju as it adds to the rich cultural fabric of Korea.

Information about Jeju Folk Village (제주민속촌)

• Address: 631-34 Minsokhaean-ro, Pyoseon-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
• Opening hours:
  • October 1 – February 28: Opens at 08:30 and stops selling tickets at 17:00.
  • March 1 – 31: Opens at 08:30 and stops selling tickets at 17:30.
  • April 1 – July 15: Opens at 08:30 and stops selling tickets at 18:00.
  • July 16 – August 15: Opens at 08:30 and stops selling tickets at 18:00.
  • August 16 – September 30: Opens at 08:30 and stops selling tickets at 18:00.
• Admission fees:
  • Adults: Individual: 15,000 won (~11.40 USD) while Group: 12,000 won (~9.12 USD)
  • Age 65 and over: Individual: 13,000 won (~9.88 USD) while Group: 10,000 won (~7.60 USD)
  • Youths: Individual: 12,000 won (~9.12 USD) while Group: 8,000 won (~6.08 USD)
  • Children: Individual: 11,000 won (~8.36 USD) while Group: 7,000 won (~5.32 USD)
• Website: jejufolk.com

Famous spots in Jeju Folk Village (제주민속촌)

• Mountain Village: Immerse yourself in the traditional way of life in the Jeju highlands by visiting this village, which features dwellings with thatched roofs and displays of traditional farming practices.
• Learn how the people of Jeju have adapted to their volcanic environment while exploring the Hill-Country Village, which features a collection of one-of-a-kind volcanic rock houses.
• The Fishing Village is where visitors may learn about the lives of Jeju’s fishermen through activities such as traditional fishing boats, demonstrations of diving and net-making, and exhibitions of marine life.
• At the Shamanism Village, you can understand the spiritual beliefs and practices of the Jeju people, including encounters with shamanistic objects and rituals.
• In the Janggeum Museum, devoted to the well-known Korean drama “Jewel in the Palace,” visitors may find information on the filming location and costumes and props from the show.
• Specifically, as Asia’s most extended lava tube, the Manjanggul Lava Tube Museum is where you can learn about the fascinating geological formations within the Manjanggul Lava Tube.
• In Jeju Stone Park, you may discover various sculptures and natural rock formations formed by volcanic activity.

Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을) 

The place is named “Bukchon,” which means “northern village” in English, a reference to its position north of the Cheonggye Stream and Jongno, Seoul’s prime business district. Notably, the unique architectural style of the hanoks in Bukchon reflects the Joseon Dynasty nobility’s exquisite taste in art and architecture. Wood, dirt, stone, and paper were natural resources to construct this neighborhood.

The folk houses have lovely courtyards, ondol (underfloor heating systems), and Dae Cheong (a hall with an excellent hardwood floor design). The distinctive curving roofs and elaborate designs of the hanoks in Bukchon attest to the period’s high level of craftsmanship. Bukchon Hanok Village’s history exemplifies how Seoul has adapted to changing times while maintaining its cultural character. It would help to learn more about Korea’s history and traditional culture there.

Information about Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을) 

• Address: Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening hours: All day
• Admission fees: Free
• Website: bukchon.seoul.go.kr

Famous spots in Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을) 

• The majesty of the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the central palace of the Joseon Dynasty, is renowned for its stunning architecture and significant historical value.
• The tranquil “Secret Garden” is located within the Changdeokgung Palace complex and is renowned for its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance.
• Explore the meandering passageways and observe the well-preserved hanoks in the Bukchon Hanok Village Traditional Houses, as these houses provide views into the traditional Korean architecture and way of life.
• Bukchonmaru Rooftop Terrace: From this well-known rooftop cafe and restaurant, you can take in breathtaking views of the area surrounding the village and the metropolitan underneath it.
• Bukchon Hanok Village Traditional Market: Take a stroll through a local market that offers a variety of things, including excellent street food, homemade trinkets, and fresh produce.

Namsangol Hanok Village (남산골한옥마을)

Namsangol Hanok Village is a lovely enclave at the base of Namsan Mountain in the middle of Seoul, providing a peaceful escape from the busy city. Here, in this village characterized by its abundance of beautifully preserved ancient Korean dwellings called “hanoks,” you can experience Seoul’s cultural and historical spirit firsthand. During the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), when hanoks were a hallmark of distinctive Korean architecture, Namsangol Hanok Village began to take shape. Nevertheless, the current community site was formerly a valley called “Jungchon,” where a few traditional dwellings could be found.

The village was built recently as a component of a city project that the Seoul Metropolitan Government began in 1998. In the face of fast urbanization, the goal was to maintain the historical appearance and cultural significance of traditional hanok dwellings. Plus, the establishment of the Namsangol Hanok Village was marked by the meticulous relocation and restoration of five hanoks dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. In addition to being a historical landmark, Namsangol Hanok Village, one of the most famous Korean folk villages, is now a thriving cultural center where the present and the past coexist.

Information about Namsangol Hanok Village (남산골한옥마을)

• Address: 28 Toegye-ro 34-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening hours:
  • 09:00 – 21:00 (Plus: Closed Every Mondays)
  • Garden Opening Hours: 24 Hours
• Admission fees: Free
• Website: hanokmaeul.or.kr

Famous spots in Namsangol Hanok Village (남산골한옥마을)

• Old Korean Houses (Hanoks): Take a tour of the hanoks that have been exceptionally well kept and enjoy the complex architecture. These houses provide a look into the old Korean way of life.
• Traditional residences of Namsangol Hanok Village: Learn about these stunning residences’ history and cultural significance by participating in a guided tour or exploring them independently.
• The Hanok Crafts Workshop is a place where you may learn about the skills of traditional Korean crafts such as lacquerware, weaving, and ceramics through activities such as classes and demonstrations.
• Through the Namsangol Hanok Village Performance Hall, you can completely submerge yourself in the culture of Korea by seeing a performance of traditional music or dance.
• Enjoy a peaceful respite amid beautifully designed gardens with ponds, pavilions, and contemplative walks at Namsangol Hanok Village Gardens.

Oeam Folk Village (외암민속마을)

Oeam Folk Village, a gem of Korean history and culture, is tucked away in the rural fringes of Asan City in South Chungcheong Province. Not only does this real-life rural town display ancient Korean architecture, but it also gives visitors a look into the lives of Joseon-era Koreans. The village’s name, “Oeam,” is thought to have sprung from an old story. According to folklore, a fisherman stumbled upon a gigantic egg while fishing. Additionally, one of the five brothers from this egg chose to make this region their home and named the town “Oeam,” which means “outer rock”—a nod to the egg’s exterior shell.

Furthermore, the Choi family, members of the prestigious “yangban” class, were instrumental in the village’s growth. As a result, they built several traditional hanok dwellings and community structures that are still used today as the village grows and changes over the years. Alongside this development, in conjunction with the community’s agricultural landscape, these structures paint a clear picture of traditional rural life in Korea.

Even now, Oeam Folk Village, one of the most famous Korean folk villages, is a living testimony to Korea’s history, providing an immersive experience for tourists interested in the culture and history of the nation. Here, century-old customs survive and even thrive in the face of modernization, making the town a miniature representation of rural Korea’s history.

Information about Oeam Folk Village (외암민속마을)

• Address: 84 Oeam-ri, Songak-myeon, Asan-si, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea
• Opening hours:
  • Summer: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Winter: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Admission fees:
  • Adults: 2,000 won (~1.52 USD)
  • Children: 1,000 won (~ 0.76 USD)
  • Children aged 6 and below and 65 years and above are free.
  • Group discounts (30 or more people): 10% off
  • Additional Fees:
    • Traditional Experience Activities: 2,000 – 5,000 won (~ 1.52 – 3.80 USD) (varies by activity)
    • Standard Dress Rental: 3,000 won (~ 2.28 USD)
• Website: oeam.co.kr

Famous spots in Oeam Folk Village (외암민속마을)

• Yeongam Gunsu House: This house has been meticulously conserved, and it features a charming garden and a sign that is rumored to have been penned by Chusa Kim Jeong-Hee, which adds historical authenticity to the property.
• A remarkable custom passed down through the years of making Yeonyeopju, a local folk wine, is displayed at Ichampan House, which has been recognized as an Important Folk Monument.
• Houses with Thatched Roofs: Stroll through the village and discover its quaint dwellings with thatched roofs, which are a great example of traditional Korean architecture and provide a serene environment.
• The Totem Pole Guardian, made of wood, is surrounded outside the village to protect its people from evil.

Jeonju Hanok Village (전주한옥마을)

This village has one of the country’s most significant clusters of conventional Korean hanok houses, with over 800. Indeed, visiting here is like deep diving into Korea’s cultural and historical heritage. There is a strong connection between the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910) and the history of Jeonju Hanok Village. The Yi family—the royal family of the Joseon Dynasty—has Jeonju as their spiritual hometown. This city’s historical importance persisted throughout the Joseon period because of its connection to the royal family; it had been the capital of the Hubaekje Kingdom (one of the Later Three Kingdoms) in the 10th century.

On the other hand, the Jeonju Hanok Village’s creation is relatively new. The neighborhood has been home to hanoks for quite some time. Still, it wasn’t until the late 20th century that the region was formally recognized as a “Hanok Village” to encourage cultural tourism and preserve traditional Korean architecture.

A tale of cultural innovation and preservation unfolds at Jeonju Hanok Village. The historical significance of Jeonju as a cultural capital of Korea is emphasized, and the country’s dedication to preserving its legacy is symbolized by it. With its rich history dating back to the Joseon Dynasty and its present-day role as a vibrant cultural center, Jeonju Hanok Village, generally one of the most famous Korean folk villages, provides a one-of-a-kind glimpse into the journey of Korea. Jeonju Hanok Village is an intriguing location offering a rich and satisfying experience for history buffs, foodies, and cultural explorers.

Information about Jeonju Hanok Village (전주한옥마을)

• Address: 99 Girin-daero, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea
• Opening hours:
  • Sunday & Thursday: 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.
  • Friday to Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Admission fees:
  • Adults: 3,000 won (~ 2.27 USD)
  • Teenagers: 2,000 won (~ 1.52 USD)
  • Children: 1,000 won (~ 0.76 USD)
  • Children aged 6 and below and aged 65 and above are free
  • Group discounts (30 or more people): 10% off
• Website: hanok.jeonju.go.kr

Famous spots in Jeonju Hanok Village (전주한옥마을)

• Jeonjuhyanggyo Confucian School: Immerse yourself in the heart of Confucianism at this well-preserved school complex that dates back 700 years. It features historic buildings, a tranquil courtyard, and displays that showcase education throughout the Joseon Dynasty.
• During your visit to the Jeonju National Museum, you will have the opportunity to learn about the rich history and culture of Jeonju and the Jeollabuk-do region via the utilization of art exhibitions, artwork, and interactive displays.
• Explore the Gyeonggijeon temple, a royal temple dedicated to King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty. Especially, This shrine is well-known for its beautiful architecture and significant historical significance.
• Nambucheon Stream: Take a stroll down the gorgeous Nambucheon Stream, which is a tranquil refuge that features charming bridges, weeping willows, and traditional teahouses that give a soothing ambiance.
• Gazebo and Ginkgo Tree at Kyoja House: This picturesque location, which features a conventional pavilion and a magnificent ginkgo tree, becomes exceptionally breathtaking during the autumn season and is the perfect place to capture the signature image of Hanok Village.
• Jeonju Hanok Village Traditional Gardens: Stroll around the serene gardens within the Hanok Village. These gardens have ponds, pavilions, and finely maintained flora, providing a moment of serenity amidst the bustling village.

Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village (경주교촌전통마을)

The Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village is proof of Korea’s abundant historical heritage. Significantly, one of the great families of the Silla Dynasty, the Choi Clan, has deep roots in Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village’s history. The Choi Clan lived in the village for a long time, and their legacy lives on in the surviving buildings and customs. Gyochon means “teaching village” in English, which refers to the settlement’s long history of serving as a school for the Silla aristocracy. Additionally, a long history of education and cross-cultural understanding flourished in the village because of its prominence among thinkers and scholars.

Classical hanoks from the Silla era are in Gyochon Village, one of the most famous Korean folk villages. The homes are eco-friendly masterpieces that have been painstakingly planned to harmonize with their natural surroundings. Eventually, this architectural style has been maintained through the ages, allowing visitors to appreciate the sophisticated beauty of the Silla era.

Information about Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village (경주교촌전통마을)

• Address: 39-2 Gyochon-gil, Gyo-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
• Opening hours:
  • March to October: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • November to February: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Admission fees:
  • Adults (19-64 years old): 3,000 won (~ 2.27 USD)
  • Teenagers (13-18 years old): 2,000 won (~ 1.52 USD)
  • Children (7-12 years old): 1,500 won (~ 1.14 USD)
  • Children under 6 years old and over 65 years old are free
• Website: gyeongju.go.kr

Famous spots in Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village (경주교촌전통마을)

• At the Seongdongyo Bridge, you can capture a picture-perfect moment by visiting this famous stone bridge, which provides a glimpse into the Joseon Dynasty’s architecture and stunning surroundings.
• Take a stroll around the traditional village walls of Gyochon, which were constructed during the Joseon Dynasty to provide defense. While doing so, you may admire the historical value of the walls and the panoramic views.
• Gyochon Stream: Take a stroll along the tranquil stream that winds its way through the village. The stream is embellished with bridges and weeping willows, creating a setting perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Seongju Hangae Folk Village (성주한개마을)

Situated in the remote countryside of North Gyeongsang Province in South Korea, Seongju Hangae Folk Village (성주한개마을) is an outstanding example of rural Korean culture. The village’s ancient homes and farming methods have been meticulously preserved, making it a history museum that provides a rare look into the country’s agricultural past. During the late Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), Seongju Hangae Folk Village was already well-established. Originally from this region, the Yi family settled here in the 18th century and are considered the community’s founders. Houses in Hangae Village are identically characterized by the distinctive architectural style that the Yi family, who came from Jeolla Province, brought with them.

Furthermore, the traditional “hanok” houses that comprise most of Hangae Village have a distinct architectural style. Designed to blend and harmonize with their natural surroundings, the homes use wood, stone, and clay materials. As a result of Fengshui principles, the houses in the village are towards the south to receive the most sunlight and to have views of the mountains for safety.

Information about Seongju Hangae Folk Village (성주한개마을)

• Address: 67 Daesan-ri, Wolhang-myeon, Seongju-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
• Opening hours:
  • March to October: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • November to February: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Admission fees:
  • Adults: 4,000 won (~ 3.04 USD)
  • Teenagers (ages 13-18): 3,000 won (~ 2.27 USD)
  • Children (ages 7-12): 2,000 won (~ 1.52 USD)
  • Children under 6 years old and over 65 years old are free
• Website: hangae.co.kr

Famous spots in Seongju Hangae Folk Village (성주한개마을)

• Traditional Korean Houses (Hanoks): Discover the village’s allure by meandering through its alleyways with well-preserved hanoks. Additionally, these hanoks showcase a variety of architectural styles and provide a look into the traditional way of life in Korea.
• Explore the village’s rich history and cultural heritage at the Seongju Hangae Folk Museum.
• During the Joseon Dynasty, the Seongju Confucian Academy (Seongjuhyanggyo) was a center for study and scholarship.
• During your visit to Wolhwangdang House, you will have the opportunity to appreciate the ancient architecture and fascinating exhibits that showcase Kim Jeong-hee’s life and work. Kim Jeong-hee was a well-known scholar and writer during the Joseon Dynasty.

Goseong Wanggok Village (고성왕곡마을)

Goseong Wanggok Village is an enchanting example of rural Korea, located in the peaceful coastline region of South Gyeongsang Province. This picturesque community, encircled by breathtaking landscapes and easily recognizable by its cluster of traditional Korean dwellings, is a living museum showcasing rural Korea’s cultural and historical diversity. Local agricultural society and regional politics during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910) are intricately connected to the history of Goseong Wanggok Village, one of the most famous Korean folk villages. The village was thought to be founded in the early Joseon Dynasty and has kept its rural charm ever since.

Since the settlement of Wanggok has long been associated with the royal court, its name means “a village of the king” in literal translation. Legend has it that the village was named Wanggok because a royal ship anchored close by while the monarch was on a maritime voyage. The area’s rich soil and plentiful water supplies made it a desirable spot for farmers. A collection of traditional hanok houses, each one a unique embodiment of Korea’s architectural legacy, make up the village. The natural setting has been thoughtfully incorporated into the design of these homes, which are constructed using materials such as clay, stone, and wood. The village dwellings face south, using the warm sunlight and the protective energy of the mountain behind them, according to the Fengshui principles.

Information about Goseong Wanggok Village (고성왕곡마을)

• Address: Obong-ri, Jugwang-myeon, Goseong-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
• Opening hours:
  • March to October: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • November to February: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Admission fees:
  • Adults: 2,000 won (~1.52 USD)
  • Teenagers (13-18 years old): 1,500 won (~1.14 USD)
  • Children (7-12 years old): 1,000 won (~0.76 USD)
  • Children under 6 years old and over 65 years old are free
• Website: wanggok.kr                 

Famous spots in Goseong Wanggok

• Goseong Wanggok Maeul is home to many hidden gems just waiting to be found, located beyond the hanoks. In brief, the village museum features a collection of unique items that you will find charming.
• Within the context of Korean society, the Wanggok Confucian Academy, a magnificent architectural masterpiece, is a tribute to the significance of education. The bright painting gracing the town’s walls depicts scenes from Goseong’s rich mythology, adding color to the traditional environment.

Final thought

In conclusion, Korean Folk Villages are not just mere tourist attractions; they are vibrant embodiments of Korea’s rich cultural legacy, offering a window into a world where ancient traditions and customs continue to breathe and flourish. As we conclude our journey through these historical havens, we are reminded of the importance of preserving cultural heritage in an ever-modernizing world.

Each village, as one of the most famous Korean folk villages, with its unique charm and stories, forms an integral part of the tapestry that is Korean history. They serve as bridges connecting the past to the present, inviting visitors from around the globe to step back in time and experience the enduring spirit of Korea. Whether through the rhythmic beats of farmers’ music, the intricate architecture of hanoks, or the tranquil simplicity of rural life, Korean Folk Villages will continue to be poignant testaments to the enduring beauty and depth of Korean culture.