Bukchon Hanok Village offers a rare time-travel experience in the heart of Seoul, holding special significance for fans of the Netflix hit ‘Goblin.’ This beautiful Joseon-era village isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s a living page of history. Today, I’ll guide you through the narrow alleyways of Bukchon that I’ve personally walked.
Why is Bukchon Hanok Village Special?
The name Bukchon comes from its location to the ‘north’ (‘buk’) of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces. But if this were just an old neighborhood, would it be this popular? Probably not.
Bukchon’s true charm lies in its hanok architectural style that has been preserved for over 600 years. The curved tile roofs, wooden doors and windows, and cozy courtyards… Isn’t it amazing that these elements quietly breathe amid Seoul’s modern high-rise buildings?
Especially Bukchon’s 11th and 31st streets are the very paths where Kim Shin (Gong Yoo) and Eun-tak (Kim Go-eun) walked in ‘Goblin.’ Being able to walk the same streets where those fateful meetings took place in the drama is enough to make any fan’s heart race!
Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village: My Recommended Route
I’ve visited Bukchon three times, and based on my experience, here’s a route I’d recommend:
- Start at Bukchon Culture Center – You can get a free map here and learn about the basic structure and history of hanok houses.
- Gahoe-dong 31st Street – Famous as a ‘Goblin’ filming location, this street is perfect for photos. But be careful! This is where real people live, so avoid making noise or entering private property.
- Bukchon Hanok Tea House – A great place to rest while enjoying traditional tea. The view from the window is like a painting.
- Gahoe Minhwa Museum – You can see works that reinterpret Joseon-era folk paintings in a modern way. It’s small but impressive with its concise exhibition.
- Finish at Samcheong-dong Café Street – This street charmingly transitions from the traditional hanok village to a modern atmosphere.
In truth, rather than following a strict plan, it’s best to explore Bukchon by naturally flowing along the alleyways. Sometimes getting lost creates opportunities for new discoveries!
Must-Visit Places for ‘Goblin’ Fans
If you’re an ardent fan of ‘Goblin,’ make sure to visit these locations:
- Bukchon 11th Street – The famous scene where Kim Shin and Eun-tak shared an umbrella was filmed here.
- Bukchon 31st Street – This served as the backdrop for the scene where the Goblin and the Grim Reaper walked side by side.
- Gyedong-gil – The alley where Eun-tak waited for Kim Shin, with a special atmosphere as if time has stopped.
These places get extremely crowded on weekends, so I recommend visiting on weekday mornings if possible. Visiting during spring or fall when the weather is pleasant will reward you with even more beautiful scenery.
Handy Tips for Visiting the Hanok Village
- Comfortable shoes are a must! There are many hilly and stone paths, so avoid high heels or uncomfortable footwear.
- Visit early in the morning. Arriving before 10 AM means fewer tourists and a more leisurely experience. Once I arrived at 9 AM, and it felt like I had the entire village to myself.
- Consider trying on hanbok. There are many hanbok rental shops at the entrance to Bukchon. Wearing traditional clothing will make your experience even more special.
- Act like a local. Respect the residents’ daily lives and check that you’re not on private property when taking photos. I had some awkward moments initially because I wasn’t aware of these considerations.
- Check the weather! Since Bukchon is mostly an outdoor attraction, it’s best to avoid rainy days.
Q&A: Curiosities About Bukchon Hanok Village
Q: How much time is needed to tour Bukchon Hanok Village? A: Set aside at least 2-3 hours. If you want to leisurely stroll through the alleys and stop for tea, half a day would be appropriate.
Q: Is there an entrance fee for Bukchon Hanok Village? A: The village itself is free. However, individual museums or experience centers have entrance fees, most ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 won.
Q: Are there signs indicating ‘Goblin’ filming locations? A: Most famous filming locations don’t have official signs. However, nearby shops or cafés often have related information. Alternatively, you can search for exact locations beforehand!
Bukchon, Beyond its Surface
Bukchon Hanok Village is more than just a tourist destination—it’s a place where our traditions and history live and breathe. Perhaps it became the backdrop for the fantasy drama ‘Goblin’ because of its timeless beauty?
Every time I walk through Bukchon, I feel something. The wisdom of our ancestors who lived in harmony with nature without modern conveniences. The narrow but efficient use of space, the hanji paper doors that change with the seasons… These aren’t just old ways but sustainable lifestyles with much to teach us for the future.
Next time you visit Seoul, be sure to experience a journey back in time at Bukchon Hanok Village. Surely, a magical moment like something from ‘Goblin’ awaits you.
#BukchonHanokVillage #GoblinFilmingLocation #SeoulTravel #KoreanTradition #KDrama #GoblinKDrama #KoreanCulture #SeoulGuide