A Traveler's Guide to Hanok — South Korea's Traditional Houses

Hanok—South Korea's traditional wooden house, is like opening a door to centuries of culture, philosophy, and sustainable living. With their curved roofs, heated floors, and harmonious blend with nature, hanoks are more than just buildings. They're a reflection of Korean values of balance and simplicity. Today, these historic homes have been reimagined as guesthouses, cultural centers, and even modern residences, offering travelers a chance to immerse themselves in traditional Korean life while enjoying contemporary comforts. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about hanoks, from their architectural secrets to the best places to stay and experience them.

1. History, Culture and the Soul of Korean Traditional Living

2. Key Architectural Features of Hanok

3. Top Hanok Villages to Visit

4. Hanok Stay: What to Expect & Top Recommendations

Hanok — written in Korean as 한옥 — is a traditional Korean dwelling/architectural style, representing a residential culture and building wisdom that have persisted for centuries, even millennia.

The history of Hanok can be traced to ancient times, and its form has evolved with social development — from primitive earthen homes in the Neolithic era, to thatched huts and wooden houses, and later during the Joseon Dynasty, the tiled-roof, wooden-structural Hanoks that we know today. Unlike modern concrete buildings, Hanoks make use of natural materials — wood, earth, stone, and roof tiles — and are designed with respect for terrain, climate, and the natural environment. In this sense, they stand as a natural, eco-friendly, and nature-integrated housing type.

The Historical Roots and Architectural Evolution

Hanok's roots date back over 2,000 years, with early versions appearing during the Three Kingdoms Period (57 BCE–668 CE). However, the iconic design we recognize today took shape during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), when Confucianism became the state ideology. Confucian principles of hierarchy, modesty, and respect for nature deeply influenced hanok architecture—from the layout of rooms to the materials used. During the Japanese colonial era (1910–1945), hanok construction declined as modern Western-style buildings became popular. But in recent decades, a revival movement has brought hanoks back to prominence, with preservation efforts and adaptive reuse turning them into beloved cultural landmarks.

The "Nature-Harmony" Ethos in Hanok Design

At the core of hanok design is the concept of "cheon-jin-mi-rok", which translates to "heaven, humans, beauty, and record." This philosophy emphasizes living in harmony with the natural world. Hanoks are typically oriented to face south to maximize sunlight in winter and shade in summer. The surrounding garden (jeongwon) is seen as an extension of the home, with trees, flowers, and water features chosen to reflect the seasons. Even the materials—pine wood, clay, and paper—are sourced from nature, ensuring the home feels connected to the land.

Hanok's unique design is defined by several distinctive elements, each serving a practical or symbolic purpose:

Roofs with Curved Tiles (Giwa) and Elegant Overhanging Eaves

Giwa (기와) — Curved Roof Tiles: The most recognizable feature, these reddish-brown clay tiles have a gentle curve that mimics the shape of a bird's wings. They're not just  decorative—their shape helps channel rainwater away from the house, and the clay provides insulation against heat and cold.

Ondol — Traditional Underfloor Heating

Ondol (온돌) — Heated Floors: A revolutionary heating system invented in South Korea over 2,000 years ago. Ondol works by circulating hot air from a wood-burning stove (agungi) under the stone floors of the house, keeping the space warm in winter. Today, modern hanoks often use electric ondol for convenience, but the cozy warmth remains the same.

Maru or Daecheong — Wooden Floor Verandas for Summer Cooling

Daecheongmaru (대청마루) – Wooden Veranda: A long, open veranda that runs along the front of the house. It's a multi-purpose space used for dining, relaxing, or hosting guests, and it blurs the line between indoor and outdoor living. In summer, families often sleep here to enjoy the cool night breeze.

Anbang & Sarangbang: Inner-Chamber and Guest-Room Layout of a Hanok

Anbang (안방) & Sarangbang (사랑방) — Inner & Guest Rooms: The anbang is the master bedroom, typically used by the head of the household, and features a traditional yo (wooden wardrobe) and bedding (foldable mats stored during the day). The sarangbang is the guest room, designed to be more formal and often decorated with calligraphy or paintings.

Hanji: South Korea's Art of Paper Windows & Doors

Hanji (한지) — Korean Paper: Used for windows and doors, hanji is made from mulberry bark and is both durable and breathable. It diffuses sunlight softly into the house, creating a warm, gentle glow, and can be repaired easily if damaged.

When you plan a trip to South Korea, what might come to mind are Seoul's neon lights, Busan's coastline, or Jeju's tea fields. But if you want to truly touch the soul of South Korea, why not do something different: skip the familiar international-chain hotels and stay in a "hanok" tucked away in a quiet alley or hidden valley. This isn't just a guesthouse — it's a living embodiment of traditional Korean aesthetics. Heated floors to warm your feet, paper-paneled windows glowing under the moonlight, and a courtyard waiting for spring blossoms — staying in a hanok lets you experience something truly unique and unforgettable, making your trip to South Korea even more meaningful.

Jeonju Hanok Village (전주한옥마을)

Known as the "capital of hanoks," Jeonju Hanok Village is home to over 800 traditional homes, making it the largest and most well-preserved hanok village in South Korea. Located in Jeollabuk-do province, the village feels like a living museum, with cobblestone streets, traditional tea houses, and craft workshops. Don't miss:

• Jeonju Hanok Living Experience Center: Take a guided tour to learn how to make hanji paper or fold hanbok (traditional clothing).

• Gyeonggijeon Shrine: A Joseon-era shrine dedicated to King Taejo, surrounded by ancient pine trees and vibrant seasonal flowers.

• Street Food: Try Jeonju bibimbap (a local specialty of mixed rice with vegetables) at one of the village's many hanok restaurants.

Andong Hahoe Folk Village (안동하회민속마을)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Andong Hahoe Folk Village is famous for its traditional yangban (aristocrat) hanoks and mask dance culture. The village is built along the Nakdong River, with houses arranged in a way that follows the natural contour of the land. Highlights include:

• Hahoe Mask Museum: Learn about the history of Korean mask dance and see intricate wooden masks used in performances.

• Buyongdae Cliff: Hike to the top for panoramic views of the village and river, especially stunning in autumn when the leaves turn red and gold.

• Traditional Mask Dance Performances: Watch lively shows that tell stories of Joseon-era life, held regularly in the village square.

Seoul Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을)

For a taste of hanok life in the heart of the city, visit Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul. Nestled between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, this village has over 400 hanoks, some of which date back to the Joseon Dynasty. It's a popular spot for photos, especially in spring when cherry blossoms bloom and autumn when the leaves change color. Don't miss:

• Bukchon Traditional Culture Center: Sign up for a hanbok rental (30,000–50,000 KRW for 2 hours) and stroll through the village in traditional clothing.

• Traditional Tea Houses: Relax with a cup of ssanghwa tea (a herbal tea made with ginseng and other roots) at a hanok tea house with a rooftop view of Seoul's skyline.

What It's Like to Stay in a Hanok

Staying in a hanok (hanok stay) is a unique experience that combines traditional living with modern amenities. Most hanok guesthouses are run by local families who are happy to share their culture with guests. Let UME Travel book your hanok stay for free and kick off a cultural-rich Korean travel experience. Here's what to expect:

• Accommodations: Rooms are typically furnished with yo wardrobes, low wooden tables, and bedding (mats and blankets) that are laid out on the ondol floor at night. Many modern hanoks also have private bathrooms and air conditioning.

• Meals: Breakfast is often included and features traditional Korean dishes like doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew), kimchi, and rice. Some hanoks offer cooking classes where you can learn to make these dishes yourself.

• Cultural Activities: Many hanok stays offer free or paid activities like hanji crafts, calligraphy, or hanbok fittings. It's a great way to connect with Korean culture.

Top Hanok Stays

• Jeonju: Hanok Guesthouse "Hanok Sarang": A family-run guesthouse with spacious rooms and a beautiful garden. They offer free hanbok rentals and homemade breakfasts. Price: 80,000–120,000 KRW (about $54 – 82) per night for a double room.

• Andong: Hahoe Hanok Village "Hahoe Hanok Stay": Located in the heart of the UNESCO village, this guesthouse offers traditional sarangbang rooms and guided tours of the village. Price: 70,000–100,000 KRW (about $47 – 68) per night for a double room.

• Seoul: Bukchon Hanok "Bukchon Maru": A modern hanok with rooftop views of Seoul. They have rooms with private bathrooms and offer calligraphy classes. Price: 100,000–150,000 KRW (about $62 – 102) per night for a double room.