Korean Folk Village, Yongin: Traditional Culture Park
The Korean Folk Village, located in Yongin, is a captivating destination that offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience traditional Korean culture. This living museum recreates the architecture, lifestyle, and customs of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) through a series of beautifully restored buildings, performances, and exhibits. It is a fantastic spot for those interested in learning about Korea's past, its customs, and its vibrant heritage.
Visitor Fee
- The entrance fee for the Korean Folk Village typically ranges from ₩15,000 to ₩20,000 for adults, depending on the season and any ongoing events or festivals.
- Children and senior citizens often receive discounts, with prices for children generally around ₩10,000.
- Additional fees may apply for special activities like performances, traditional experiences, or seasonal events.
Transportation
- By Subway: From Seoul, take the Line 1 from Seoul Station and travel to Suwon Station. From there, transfer to a bus heading to the Folk Village. The total travel time is around 1.5-2 hours.
- By Bus: Direct buses are available from various points in Seoul, including Gangnam and Suweon. These buses take about an hour to reach the Folk Village.
- By Car: If driving, the village is located about 40 minutes from central Seoul, making it a convenient trip for those with private transportation.
Things to Do
- Explore Traditional Korean Houses: Walk through various traditional hanok (Korean houses) that are preserved to reflect the architectural styles and lifestyles of the Joseon Dynasty. Many houses are fully furnished to give an immersive experience.
- Cultural Performances: Watch vibrant traditional performances, including mask dances, drumming, folk music, and martial arts demonstrations that take place throughout the day.
- Craftsmanship Demonstrations: Experience traditional Korean arts and crafts, such as pottery making, weaving, and calligraphy. Visitors can even try their hand at some crafts in interactive workshops.
- Seasonal Festivals: The Folk Village hosts various festivals, including Lunar New Year celebrations, harvest festivals, and cherry blossom festivals, where visitors can participate in traditional games, food tasting, and performances.
- Experience Traditional Korean Clothing: Visitors can try on traditional hanbok (Korean clothing) and take photos to remember their visit.
- Themed Exhibits: Explore exhibits focused on aspects of traditional Korean life, such as farming tools, costumes, kitchenware, and everyday life in ancient Korea.
- Traditional Korean Games: Enjoy engaging in games that were popular during the Joseon Dynasty, such as yutnori (a traditional board game), and tuho (a traditional throwing game).
- Korean Folk Village Zoo: The Folk Village also features a small zoo, home to native animals like deer, horses, and various birds, which are often depicted in traditional Korean art.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here
Visitors flock to the Korean Folk Village for its unique ability to bring Korea's rich history and culture to life. The immersive atmosphere, with its authentic architecture, traditional performances, and engaging cultural activities, allows visitors to experience a living snapshot of Korea's past. It’s a perfect spot for families, history enthusiasts, and tourists seeking to understand Korean traditions in a fun and interactive way.
How Old is This Place
The Korean Folk Village was established in 1974 and was designed to preserve and showcase the traditional Korean lifestyle, which was rapidly disappearing with modernization. It was built with the goal of creating an authentic, educational space for people to learn about Korea's cultural heritage.
List of Activities
- Explore Hanok Villages: Wander through restored traditional Korean houses.
- Watch Traditional Performances: Enjoy mask dances, drumming, and more.
- Try Korean Crafts: Participate in workshops on pottery, weaving, and calligraphy.
- Seasonal Celebrations: Celebrate traditional holidays and festivals.
- Dress in Hanbok: Try on traditional Korean clothing and take photos.
- Traditional Korean Games: Participate in games like yutnori and tuho.
- Learn History and Culture: Visit exhibits on traditional life, farming tools, and more.
- Visit the Folk Village Zoo: See native Korean animals.
Additional Nearby Attractions
- Everland Theme Park: A short drive from the Folk Village, Everland is one of South Korea's largest theme parks, offering thrilling rides, animal exhibits, and seasonal events.
- Korean War Memorial: Located in nearby Suwon, this memorial offers a detailed look at Korea's modern history, especially focusing on the Korean War.
- Hwaseong Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Suwon, Hwaseong Fortress is a stunning example of Korean architecture from the 18th century, complete with a wall, gates, and watchtowers.
- Suwon World Cup Stadium: A major sports venue, this stadium was built for the 2002 FIFA World Cup and offers tours and events for sports fans.
The Korean Folk Village in Yongin is an enriching experience for those who wish to immerse themselves in Korea's past, learn about its culture, and enjoy hands-on activities, all while exploring a stunningly preserved traditional village. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking to enjoy a day of cultural exploration, this village offers something for everyone.