Culture Villages in Korea: Real People, Real Art

In this post, I’m taking you to some of the most prominent Culture Villages in Korea which over the past years have become trendy art districts and hip Instagram backdrops. But despite all the enthusiasm for the wonderful art projects, we shouldn’t forget to also take a look behind the colorful layers of paint, because in Korea’s Daldongnae, behind real art live real people.

Culture Villages in Korea: Real People, Real Art
Painting the village in Jeonju.
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An Easy Day Trip to the Hahoe Folk Village from Andong

An easy day trip from Andong brings you to the Hahoe Folk Village where Korea’s traditional rural life remains unspoilt. Hahoe is a cute little village full of adorable crooked houses. You wouldn’t be surprised if you met Hansel, Gretel, Rumpelstiltskin, and all the other fairy tale characters in the narrow alleys.
And, of course, a Queen.
In 2019, the time had actually come and none less than Queen Elizabeth II paid a visit to the picturesque village in the south-eastern part of Korea. I assume Elizabeth travelled in a pumpkin carriage, befitting her status. Not being a queen, I took the bus to Hahoe on my day trip from Andong – and what can I say, it was a cheap and comfortable ride, and most importantly, the coach didn’t smell like pumpkin.

Hahoe Folk Village visited on an easy day trip from Andong.
Village people at Hahoe.
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How to Experience the Folk Heritage of Korea in ANDONG

Located almost 100 kilometers north of the former imperial city of Gyeongju, Andong seems to stand in the shadow of its smaller yet more glorious sister. Far too few international visitors foresee a stop in Andong on their trip to Korea.
Not me.
The only thing I regret regarding my visit to Andong is that I couldn’t stay for a few days longer since the city has an unexpected amount of tradition, culture, and absolutely authentic vibes to offer. Hence, it’s time to experience Andong where the folk heritage of Korea has been living on for generations.

People crossing the Woryeonggyo Bridge in Andong.
Strolling across Andong’s Woryeonggyo Bridge is a favorite pastime of locals and visitors alike.
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