Korean Folk Village
Gyeonggi-do
Korean Folk Village, located in Yongin near Seoul, is a living museum that recreates a traditional Korean village from the late Joseon Dynasty. Opened in 1974, it features over 260 authentic traditional houses relocated and restored from various provinces across South Korea. The village offers visitors a unique cultural experience through seasonal celebrations, traditional performances such as Nong-ak plays, tightrope walking, horseback martial arts, and traditional weddings. Staff members dressed in period costumes portray historical characters, enriching the immersive atmosphere. The park also includes workshops demonstrating traditional crafts like woodworking and metalworking, alongside markets, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Additional attractions include an amusement park area with rides, art and folk museums, and a sculpture garden. The Korean Folk Village serves as a cultural hub preserving Korea's heritage amidst rapid modernization, offering visitors an engaging journey into the nation's past.
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Tip: Visit during spring or weekends to catch special festivals like the Welcome to Joseon Variety Festival and seasonal performances. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons and festivals. The village offers various discounts and partner card events. Don't miss traditional craft workshops and cultural experiences such as natural dyeing and horseback riding. Plan to spend several hours to fully enjoy the performances, exhibits, and amusement facilities.
Interesting facts
- •The village occupies approximately 245 acres (991,735 m²) and contains over 260 traditional houses from the late Joseon period.
- •It hosts four main cultural performances daily: Nong-ak play, tightrope walking, horseback martial arts, and traditional wedding ceremonies.
- •The Korean Folk Village includes exhibition halls featuring thousands of cultural artifacts, including a world folk exhibition and a masked dance exhibition.
- •It has been used as a filming location for notable Korean dramas such as 'Moon Embracing the Sun', 'Kingdom', and 'Jewel in the Palace'.
- •The village holds an annual 'Welcome to Joseon' festival where visitors can engage directly with traditional performances and characters.
History
The Korean Folk Village was established in 1974 as South Korea's first open-air museum to preserve traditional Korean culture threatened by rapid industrialization and westernization in the 1960s.
Its buildings were relocated from various regions to authentically represent the late Joseon period.
Since its inception, the village has expanded to include cultural performances, workshops, and museums that showcase traditional lifestyles and crafts.
It has also served as a filming location for popular Korean dramas, enhancing its cultural significance and popularity.
Place Guide
Traditional Joseon HousesLate Joseon period
Explore over 260 restored houses representing various social classes from the late Joseon Dynasty, showcasing authentic architectural styles and living conditions.
Cultural Performance Stages
Witness daily traditional performances including Nong-ak (farmers' music), tightrope walking, horseback martial arts, and traditional wedding ceremonies, performed by staff in period costumes.
Traditional Craft Workshops
Experience hands-on activities such as natural dyeing, woodworking, and metalworking, reflecting traditional Korean artisan techniques.
Folk Museums and Exhibition Halls
Visit the Korean Folk Museum and World Folk Museum featuring thousands of cultural artifacts, including an extensive collection of earthenware and masked dance items.
Amusement Park Section
Enjoy rides and games such as bumper cars, music express, biking, boat rides, and seasonal attractions like sled slopes in winter, blending cultural education with entertainment.
Contact
Phone: 031-288-0000
