Namsangol Hanok Village Explained

Hangul:남산골한옥마을
Hanja:南山골韓屋마을
Rr:Namsangol hanok maeul
Mr:Namsan'gol hanok maŭl

Namsangol Hanok Village is a recreated village of historical Korean buildings in Pil-dong, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea. The village contains several Korean traditional houses called hanok.[1]

The Namsangol Hanok Village offers one the opportunity to experience a wide cross-section of Joseon-era citizenry and activities, from royalty to commoners. A great effort has been made to accurately furnish each dwelling with appropriate era and social status appointments.[2]

Admission is free, although it is closed on Tuesdays. Close to Chungmuro Station at the intersection of Seoul Metropolitan Subway Line 3 and Line 4.

History

The location of the village was originally the site of a well known Joseon-era summer resort called Jeonghakdong. Jeonghakdong means "The land of the fairies for the blue crane where the Jeonugak Pavilion stands along the stream in the valley". The area boasted such superb scenery that it was called the land of the fairies and was considered one of the five most beautiful parts of Seoul.

A traditional Korean style garden, complete with a flowing stream and pavilion was constructed on the site in order to revive the classical feel of the Joseon-era. Five traditional houses, including some of the residences of high government officials - some of the largest mansions in Seoul at the time, along with commoners houses were moved to the 7,934 sq Meters/9,489 sq Yards grounds containing the restored village.

Tourism

In 2011 in a survey conducted, by Seoul Development Institute, which included 800 residents and 103 urban planners and architects. It listed 52.4 percent of experts, voted that the palace as the most scenic location in Seoul, following Mount Namsan, Han River and Gyeongbokgung Palace in the top spots.[3]

See also

References

37.5592°N 126.9939°W

Notes and References

  1. Web site: http://www.encyber.com/search_w/ctdetail.php?masterno=741257&contentno=741257 . ko:남산골 한옥마을 南山─韓屋─ . 2008-05-07 . Korean .
  2. News: Travel: Namsangol Hanok Village. 4 June 2012. The Chosun Ilbo. 28 April 2011.
  3. News: Mt. Nam Picked as Seoul's No. 1 Scenic Attraction. 4 June 2012. The Chosun Ilbo. 19 April 2009.