If you’re planning a trip to South Korea in 2025 and want to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage, there’s no better way than visiting a traditional Korean hanok. These elegant wooden houses, with their graceful tiled roofs and peaceful courtyards, capture the essence of Korean history, architecture, and aesthetics.
Originally designed during the Joseon Dynasty, hanoks are built with natural materials like wood, stone, and clay. They follow the principles of baesanimsu (ideal placement between mountains and water) and cheoma (roof overhangs for sunlight control), and many are still in use today — as homes, guesthouses, museums, or cultural centers.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the 10 most beautiful hanoks you absolutely must see in 2025. Each offers a unique glimpse into Korea’s architectural and cultural soul — and they’re incredibly photogenic too!
1. Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul)
Location: Jongno-gu, Seoul
Why visit: Largest concentration of hanoks in Korea
Experience: Walking tour, hanok guesthouses, workshops
One of the most famous hanok villages in South Korea, Bukchon is nestled between two iconic palaces — Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. Over 900 traditional hanoks are preserved here, many dating back hundreds of years.
Bukchon isn’t just a museum — it’s a living village. People still live in these homes, but several have been transformed into guesthouses, craft shops, tea houses, and cultural centers. As you stroll along its narrow alleys and winding slopes, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a historical Korean drama.
Highlights:
- Stay in a hanok guesthouse for an immersive experience.
- Participate in calligraphy and traditional dyeing workshops.
- Enjoy panoramic views from Bukchon Observatory.
2. Jeonju Hanok Village (Jeonju)
Location: Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do
Why visit: Korea’s top hanok destination
Experience: Street food, hanbok rentals, culture-rich museums
Jeonju Hanok Village is home to over 700 hanoks, blending cultural heritage with modern tourism. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a mix of tradition and fun. You can rent a hanbok (Korean traditional attire) and take selfies in front of beautiful tiled rooftops, eat Jeonju-style bibimbap, and even try traditional Korean liquor.
The area is also a designated Slow City, meaning it focuses on preserving a slow, peaceful way of life — just as hanoks were intended to promote.
Highlights:
- Hanok Stay experience at Gyeonggijeon Shrine.
- Visit the Jeonju Crafts Exhibition Hall.
- Taste the original Jeonju bibimbap and traditional rice wine.
3. Rakkojae Hanok (Seoul)
Location: Jongno-gu, Seoul
Why visit: Premium hanok stay experience
Experience: Upscale hanok hospitality
If you’re looking for a luxurious take on traditional Korean living, Rakkojae is the ultimate hanok stay. The name means “a place to enjoy the old,” and this carefully restored 130-year-old house does exactly that.
It offers personalized services like traditional Korean meals, tea ceremonies, and even modern amenities such as jacuzzis — all within a hanok structure. It’s the perfect fusion of past and present.
Highlights:
- Traditional breakfast served in-room.
- Korean dry sauna (hanjeungmak).
- Private garden and courtyard views.
4. Yangdong Folk Village (Gyeongju)
Location: Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Why visit: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Experience: Authentic historical atmosphere
Yangdong Folk Village is a preserved traditional town that showcases the yangban (aristocrat) lifestyle of the Joseon Dynasty. Recognized by UNESCO for its cultural value, this village boasts over 150 hanoks, many of which are still occupied by descendants of the original noble families.
Here, the hanoks are laid out following Confucian principles, harmoniously blending with the hills and streams. Visitors can stroll freely among the houses or participate in guided tours.
Highlights:
- Learn about Confucian teachings at Seobaekdang and Mucheomdang.
- Stay overnight in a heritage hanok.
- Attend traditional performances and rituals.
5. Hahoe Folk Village (Andong)
Location: Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Why visit: Historic riverside hanok village
Experience: Cultural performances, traditional festivals
Another UNESCO-listed treasure, Hahoe Folk Village sits by the Nakdong River and is famous for its idyllic setting and historical importance. The hanoks here are remarkably well-preserved and are surrounded by beautiful scenery — pine forests, sandy riverbanks, and cliffs.
The village is also known for its Hahoe Mask Dance and other traditional performances. It’s a great destination for cultural immersion, especially during the Andong Mask Dance Festival.
Highlights:
- Hahoe Byeolsingut Talnori (masked drama performance).
- Queen Elizabeth II visited in 1999!
- Visit the Byeongsanseowon Confucian Academy.
6. Gahoedong Hanok (Seoul)
Location: Bukchon, Seoul
Why Visit: Photogenic architecture
Experience: Private hanok stay
Gahoedong Hanok is a lesser-known gem nestled in the Bukchon Hanok Village. It offers quiet and privacy — ideal for those who want to experience hanok life without the crowds.
Though small, the hanok is beautifully maintained, with a lush courtyard, traditional ondol heated floors, and elegant wooden detailing. Many visitors book it for photography, romantic stays, or simply a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Highlights:
- Private bookings available for couples and families.
- Walking distance to key Seoul landmarks.
- Cozy atmosphere with minimalist traditional design.
7. Namsangol Hanok Village (Seoul)
Location: Jung-gu, Seoul
Why visit: Reconstructed hanok village
Experience: Cultural performances, tea ceremony, activities
Situated near the base of Namsan Mountain, this open-air museum features five restored hanoks representing different social classes from the Joseon era — from royalty to commoners.
Namsangol offers an educational yet interactive experience. Visitors can try traditional crafts, wear hanbok, watch Korean wedding reenactments, and explore a traditional Korean garden.
Highlights:
- Free entrance to the village.
- Try traditional games like tuho and yutnori.
- Enjoy seasonal festivals and events.
8. Choi Champandaek (Andong)
Location: Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Why visit: Korea’s oldest aristocratic residence
Experience: Historical tours, traditional lodging
Choi Champandaek has been home to the Choi family for over 300 years. This hanok is famous for its dignified architecture and role in preserving Korean Confucian traditions.
Although it still functions as a private residence, parts of the house are open to the public. Visitors can stay overnight or take a guided tour to learn about the historical documents, artifacts, and stories preserved here.
Highlights:
- Designated as Important Folk Cultural Asset No. 84.
- Learn about Korean hospitality traditions.
- Surrounded by quiet fields and nature.
9. Seonbichon Village (Yeongju)
Location: Yeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Why visit: Explore Confucian scholar life
Experience: Hanok stay, educational programs, calligraphy
Seonbichon (meaning “village of scholars”) is dedicated to Korea’s seonbi — learned men who lived modest lives devoted to morality and education. The hanoks here are built around this concept, with a scholarly simplicity and elegance.
The village is also adjacent to Sosu Seowon, Korea’s oldest Confucian academy and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re interested in Korean philosophy, this is the place to visit.
Highlights:
- Stay in a scholar’s hanok room.
- Participate in ink painting and etiquette classes.
- Visit Sosu Seowon for deeper insights.
10. Oeam Folk Village (Asan)
Location: Asan-si, Chungcheongnam-do
Why visit: Picturesque and peaceful rural hanok village
Experience: Agricultural experience, traditional customs
Less commercialized than others, Oeam Folk Village is perfect for those who want a more peaceful hanok experience. Here, hanoks are arranged organically along narrow stone-paved paths, surrounded by farmland and gardens.
The village offers unique cultural activities, including rice planting, kimchi-making, and seasonal festivals. Staying overnight in a farmhouse-style hanok lets you enjoy the tranquil beauty of Korea’s countryside.
Highlights:
- Experience rural life and Korean farming culture.
- Visit during spring and autumn for the best scenery.
- Beautiful photo spots with thatched roofs and gardens.
Bottom line
Traditional hanoks aren’t just buildings — they’re living pieces of Korean history and philosophy. Each hanok tells a different story: of aristocratic families, Confucian ideals, artistic expression, or rural harmony with nature.
In 2025, make time to explore these beautiful hanoks across South Korea. Whether you’re staying overnight, attending a cultural class, or just admiring the architecture, you’ll come away with a deep appreciation for Korea’s timeless elegance and warm hospitality.
So, which hanok will you visit first?
