South Korea, the ancient and the modern go hand in hand. While many praise South Korea for its K-pop and tech, its traditions can be seen most clearly in the beautiful Hanok villages found throughout the area. The villages that remain preserved give us a real view of Korea’s history, featuring homes, traditions and ways of life from many years ago. If you’re arranging your next cultural trip, be sure to include these places on your schedule. 

In Seoul, Bukchon is famous, yet Suncheon and Jeju have their own unique Hanok villages for a calming yet valuable experience. If you’re a fan of history, enjoy architecture or just want to relax, these places will bring you back to a quieter era. Don’t forget to get your South Korea visa before you set off for your journey. 

Here are the 7 Beautiful Hanok Villages You Need to Explore in Korea 

1. Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul  

Bukchon Hanok Village which lies between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, is one of the easiest traditional villages to access and see. This area is filled with hundreds of restored hanoks, all winding through narrow alleyways that bring to life the Joseon Dynasty. Today, however, these houses have become museums, tea houses and cultural centers which combine perfectly history and creativity in the noisy capital of Seoul. 

2. Jeonju Hanok Village  

A cultural mecca, Jeonju Hanok Village is well known for its food, crafts and art. Due to its collection of over 800 traditional Korean houses in one area, the village offers traditional performances, hanbok rentals and workshops in pottery and calligraphy. The birthplace of bibimbap, Korea’s iconic rice dish, it’s also a paradise for food lovers. It’s a living, breathing celebration of Korea’s heritage here. 

3. Andong Hahoe Folk Village  

Andong Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the only place where you can see aristocratic life during the Joseon period. Descendants of the Ryu clan still live in the village and it is a beautiful natural setting on the Nakdong River. Life here continues to be influenced by traditional Confucian values. Mask dance performances, folklore museums and even staying overnight in one of the historic hanoks are all on the menu for visitors. 

4. Namsangol Hanok Village, Seoul  

Namsangol Hanok Village is in the heart of Seoul near Namsan Tower and is curated Korean culture. Located in this compact village are five restored hanoks, one for each social class of the Joseon era. Also in the village are a traditional garden, performance spaces and cultural activities such as tea ceremonies and archery. For tourists who want to see Korea’s history without leaving the city, it’s an ideal stop. 

5. Yangdong Village, Gyeongju  

The other UNESCO listed treasure near Gyeongju is Yangdong Village. Famed for its well preserved wooden homes and scenic landscape, it’s the largest traditional village in Korea. Because the area is on hillsides, the city is designed to emphasize harmony between humans and their environment. Whereas other touristy spots, Yangdong still preserves a tranquil, lived in charm and visitors can quietly watch traditional life happening in real time. 

6. Seongeup Folk Village, Jeju Island  

Jeju Island has beaches, volcanic landscapes and even cultural treasures such as Seongeup Folk Village. This village is known for its unique thatched roof houses, black lava rock walls and ancient relics and offers a rare look at Jeju island culture. You may even meet locals eager to share stories or to offer traditional snacks and there are still plenty of homes still inhabited. That’s a fascinating contrast to Jeju’s modern tourist attractions. 

7. Naganeupseong Folk Village, Suncheon  

Naganeupseong is a walled folk village in the picturesque Suncheon area. It’s special because it’s still a functioning village where more than 100 traditional homes are occupied by residents. Fortress walls, watchtowers and narrow streets with traditional markets are also home to the village. This makes for a lively, interactive destination, ideal for families and cultural travelers, with cultural festivals and hands on programs (farming and cooking). 

Conclusion 

Korea’s Hanok villages are a living history book, except with fresh air, friendly locals and a lot of charm. Travelers can see Korea’s deep rooted traditions in the most scenic and immersive way possible in these villages. You will never forget staying in a traditional hanok or learning how to make kimchi. 

Indian travelers planning a cultural holiday to South Korea should obtain South Korea visa from India as early as possible in order to have a fruitful trip. If you plan it right, you’ll be sipping tea in a hanok courtyard, listening to the ghosts of centuries past.