Bukchon Hanok Village
Traditional homes line the hills and lanes of this residential neighborhood. Tiled roofs, walls and gates offer close views of old Seoul housing.
Why choose this place
For old Seoul’s residential scenery: explore tiled roofs and gates up close along hillside lanes.
Make the most of your visit
People still live here. Check permitted visiting hours and areas, and keep conversations and photography quiet.
Stories from the record
Why the northern village?
Bukchon means the village north of Cheonggyecheon and Jongno. Between royal palaces and Jongmyo, it became a residential district for Joseon's elite. Its position within the city matters as much as the age of any house.
Traditional homes meet a modern city
Many clusters of compact hanok formed around the 1930s, when large plots were subdivided to meet housing demand. This is not an entire Joseon neighborhood frozen unchanged in time; modernization also shaped it.
Even a glass door tells a story
Glass doors and newer roofing materials show how hanok adapted to urban life. Look at gates and walls as well as rooflines. These remain people's homes, so respect residents' privacy.
Sources
Before you go
Opening hours and closing days can change, so check the official information before visiting.