West side of Bukchon
Bukchon Hanok Village is a Korean traditional village with a long history located between Gyeongbok Palace, Changdeok Palace and Jongmyo Royal Shrine. The traditional village is composed of lots of alleys, hanok and is preserved to show a 600-year-old urban environment. Now it is used as a traditional culture center and hanok restaurant, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the Joseon Dynasty.
History Since historical times its region, which consists of the neighborhoods Wonseo-dong, Jae-dong, Gye-dong, Gahoe-dong and Insa-dong, has been called Bukchon which means northern village because it is located in the northern part of Cheonggye Stream and Jongno. Also it is famous as the residential quarter of high-ranking government officials and royal families. Bukchon Hanok Village and its historical, cultural heritage from the Joseon Dynasty to modern times tell visitors the history of this area.
TourismIn a poll of nearly 2,000 foreign visitors, conducted by the Seoul Metropolitan Government in November 2011, stated that exploring the narrow streets of Bukchon as their fourth favorite activity in Seoul.
According to data by the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center 30,000 people visited the area in 2007. However, after the Village was featured in television programmes, such as 1 Night 2 Days and Personal Taste, the number rose to 318,000 in 2010. In 2012 the figure is expected to double to more than 600,000.
The place name, Bukcheon has been used since Joseon Dynasty. The traditional houses which show 600-year-old history of Seoul.
There are many museums, art galleries and traditional craft centers.
Access
Going one block from Exit No.1 of Anguk station Line No.3 and walking along a road in front of Pungmun girls high school. There is an information center is across the street from crossroads. you can get a free map there.
