Overseas tourists check a map while walking through the historic alleys of Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul, Jan. 20. Newsis

Bukchon Hanok Village stands as a living testament to the centuries of history that shaped the capital of Korea.

Located between Gyeongbok Palace and Changdeok Palace, the two main royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), this neighborhood has served as the traditional heart of Seoul for over 600 years.

In the Joseon era, the area was a residential district for aristocrats and high-ranking government officials. These elite residents chose it for its ideal location, as it sits on the southern slopes of Mount Bugak, a spot traditionally believed to bring great energy and prosperity.

While the rapid modernization of Seoul in the 20th century led to the loss of many traditional structures, Bukchon has managed to preserve its unique identity through the dedication of its residents and the city government. Today, it remains one of the few places where visitors can walk through a dense neighborhood of hundreds of traditional Korean houses known as hanok.

But this is no open-air museum. Bukchon is a living, breathing neighborhood — one that now welcomes visitors with clearer boundaries, a renewed sense of respect and practical tips for those hoping to explore it the right way.

To help balance tourism with daily life, city officials introduced a designated walking route that guides visitors through the village’s most scenic and culturally significant spots. The timing of a visit also matters as much as the route itself. In designated residential "red zones," a 5 p.m. curfew has been put in place to safeguard the quiet hours of those who call Bukchon home.

The main entrance of the Baek In-je House in Bukchon Hanok Village stands as a representative example of modern hanok architecture in Seoul, Thursday. Korea Times photo by Baek Byung-yeul

Among the many traditional houses in the village, the Baek In-je House is a special example of modern hanok design. It was built in 1913 and later owned by Baek In-je, the famous doctor who founded Paik Hospital.

The house is unique because it mixes traditional Korean styles with Japanese elements. For example, it has a second floor and a long wooden hallway that connects the rooms. At the time it was built, this was a very new and unusual design for a hanok.

Source: Korea Times News