Seochon Village Seoul | Hanok Village | Where To Go, Eat & Stay

Situated west of the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace, lies the charming Seochon Village in Seoul. This charming district is known for its nostalgic allure, featuring an array of attractions from the beloved Tongin Market to quaint strike-a-pose-worthy cafes, and numerous palate-pleasing restaurants. Here’s a more detailed guide into the bustling, vibrant life that awaits you at Seochon Village Seoul.

Tongin Market
Just stepping into the entrance of Tongin market is like stepping into a vibrant microcosm of Korean life. This traditional market, brimming with variety and color, is home to more than 70 shops and stalls. Here, you can enjoy shopping for all types of goods from delectable street food to fascinating trinkets and souvenirs. Especially famous is the market’s food section, where you can try an array of traditional Korean foods such as Tteokbokki, a spicy rice cake, and Gimbap, a seaweed rice roll filled with various ingredients.

Restaurants and Cafes
Seochon Village doesn’t shy away from showcasing its bustling food scene, offering a diverse range of restaurants serving both traditional and modern Korean cuisine. Sample remarkable dishes like Bibimbap, a mixed rice dish, or Samgyeopsal, Korean-style barbecued pork belly, in one of the many local eateries.

As for the café lovers, Seochon Village has got you covered. Its charming, Insta-worthy cafes invite you to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy an aromatic cup of coffee or tea. Many of these cafes also exhibit a strong ambiance of the artistic with some doubling as galleries showcasing works of local artists.

Notably, Seochon does not only offer food and shopping. The village has been the home to numerous famous historical figures and boasts a wealth of cultural and historic sites. Walking through its rustic lanes is akin to leafing through the pages of Seoul’s vibrant history.

With all these offerings in place, Seochon Village is a must-visit location for those who are eager to taste Korean culture and history firsthand. A visit here will truly be a day well spent that will leave you with unforgettable memories. So, next time you find yourself in Seoul don’t forget to spend a day wandering the lanes of this vivid village!

Note: Given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, please check the local travel advisories before planning your visit. Above mentioned restaurants, cafes and other public places may be temporarily closed or have altered operating hours.

Things to Remember When Visiting Seochon, Korea

Seochon is a beautiful village in Korea rich in history and culture. If you’re looking to experience this destination to the fullest, here are essential tips and suggestions to consider:

• Walking Tour: Engage a local guide for a comprehensive 3-hour walking tour around Seochon. This tour covers interesting locations within the area and provides a broader context to the culture and history of the village. For a detailed booking guideline and pricing, click here.

• Dresscode: Clothing considerations are essential when planning your trip. Discover what is socially acceptable and what is functional based on the weather in South Korea. Here’s a comprehensive advisory on what to pack and wear in South Korea.

• Discounts for Foreigners: Economize your trip while maximizing your experience using discount sites like Klook and Trazy. They offer a range of discounted entrance tickets specially made available for foreigners.

• Public Transportation: The T-Money card is essential for navigating around Seoul as it is accepted in subways, buses, and taxis. For information on where to buy and how to use this card, check this link.

• Planning Your Itinerary: Include the Seochon Hanok Village in your Seoul itinerary as part of this picturesque route that chronicles the city’s traditional vibe.

• Other Noteworthy Locations: Diversify your trip by exploring other locations such as Bukchon and Myeongdong, which are popular localities within Seoul, known for their unique experiences.

Keep these tips handy to ensure an immersive and comfortable experience when visiting Seochon, Korea.

About Seochon Village: Enriched History

Positioned to the west of the historically renowned center of Seoul or the erstwhile Hanyang from the period of the Joseon Dynasty, Seochon earns its literal translation as the ‘West Village’. It lies adjacent to the well-known Gyeongbokgung Palace and has gained popularity among visitors desiring authentic Korean traditional experience or a hanok stay.

Distinct from the Bukchon village, another significant historical site placed to the right of the Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seochon was once the residence of less powerful court officials and scholars during the Joseon Dynasty. Even though less powerful, they lived in traditional Korean hanok houses that were in close proximity to the major palaces for easy commute.

One historical figure of note born in Seochon is King Sejong. An eminent name in the annals of Korean history, King Sejong is best-known for the creation of the Korean alphabet, as well as spearheading other significant changes to the country’s foreign policies and military.

In the later stages of the Joseon Dynasty and the period of Japanese occupation, Seochon village started attracting foreigners and became a desirable settlement area. The year 1898 witnessed the establishment of the Baewha Women’s University by the American missionary Josephine Eaton Peel Campbell.

A stroll around Seochon village feels like a journey back in time. Remarkably, many of the buildings and structures remain untouched since the 1970s. Then President Park Chung-hee brought into effect a law prohibiting construction and renovation within the vicinity of the Blue House. This policy was enacted as a protective measure to combat potential assassination threats to the Korean presidents, only being lifted towards the close of the 20th century.

In the present day, Seochon Hanok village is home to several quaint art galleries, coffee shops, and boutiques lending the area a retro and nostalgic appeal. Moreover, the price for hanok stays here is usually more affordable compared to that in Bukchon village, providing a cost-effective traditional Korean experience.

Guide to Seochon Village

Located on Line 3 of Seoul’s subway, accessible via Gyeongbokgung Station, Seochon Village forms an integral part of Seoul’s rich history and burgeoning contemporary culture.

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Constructed in 1395 as the first and main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung Palace has withstood the test of time to remain a marvelous architectural feat. Two noteworthy national museums, the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum, are situated on the palace premises. Both institutions are complementary for guests and worth a visit. Don’t miss the change of guards ceremony, an age-old ritual showcasing the palace’s longstanding traditions, which occurs at 10 AM and 2 PM daily.

Visit: Gyeongbokgung Official Website

2. Tongin Market

Established in 1941, Tongin Market introduces visitors to the delights of Korean street food. In 2011, Tongin Market introduced an inventive coin-payment system, enabling visitors to sample a range of Korean dishes affordably. The coins, each valued at 500 KRW, are used in exchange for food at various stalls. This system allows you to enjoy a fulfilling meal for a mere 5000 KRW, essentially a packed lunch box. A seating area is located on the second floor of the market where you can indulge, relax and enjoy your acquired cuisine. For those interested in delving deeper into Korean food culture, market tours and cooking classes are also offered.

Check out: the Tongin Market Cooking Class

3. National Palace Museum

Catering to history enthusiasts, the National Palace Museum unravels the mysteries of the royal life during the Joseon Dynasty. With a collection exceeding 20,000 royal relics from five Joseon-era palaces, the museum offers bilingual informational signs displayed in both English and Korean. The museum’s exhibition is circulated through 10 unique rooms, each focusing on a distinct element of royal existence during the Joseon period.

4. Daeo Bookstore

Daeo Bookstore is the oldest existing bookstore in Seoul, established in 1951. This landmark is revered for preserving the original interior and exterior design of a conventional bookstore. In 2014, the bookstore was declared an official municipal heritage site by the Seoul city government for its historical significance. Its recent addition, a cozy café, helps generate funds used for the store’s maintenance and preservation.

5. Boan Yeogwan

Once a breeding ground for talented 20th-century artists, the 80-year-old Boan Yeogwan building has held a variety of functions throughout its existence. Initially an inn, Boan Yeogwan hosted a wave of emerging poets and writers before transforming into a gallery in 2007. The building’s exterior remains unchanged, preserving its historical aesthetic. Rebranded as “Boan 1942,” the building currently serves as a multi-venue space, incorporating an exhibition hall, bookstore, café, and rooms offering a picturesque view of the palace.

6. Cheongwadae Sarangchae

Located in proximity to the Blue House, Cheongwadae Sarangchae is an exhibitions center that highlights Korean culture and shares the histories of former South Korean presidents. The exhibition hall provides bilingual information in both English and Korean. The ground level displays fluctuating temporary exhibitions, while the permanent exhibition on the South Korean presidents’ history is situated in the Cheongwadae hall.

Watch: Youtube Video about Cheongwadae Sarangchae

Accommodations in Seochon Village

Looking to stay in Seochon Village? Below are some highly rated accommodations you can consider which range from the traditional Hanok stays to more modern guesthouses:

1. Hanok 24 Guesthouse: Nestled in the heart of Seochon, Hanok 24 Guesthouse is renowned for its traditional architecture blended with modern amenities. The guesthouse accommodates beautifully styled bedrooms realized with traditional Korean design aesthetics complemented by modern restrooms and kitchens. A stay here guarantees a cultural voyage with all the comforts of a high-rated accommodation.

2. Supia Guesthouse: Supia Guesthouse is another modern Hanok stay worth considering. It boasts of amazing breakfast options and a remarkable host, Daisy, known for her warm hospitality towards guests. A fusion of tradition and modernity, this guesthouse guarantees a pleasant and memorable stay.

3. NagNe Boutique: If the charm of a guesthouse on a budget is what you are looking for, NagNe Boutique is your accommodation of choice. Offering comfort and affordability, it provides a unique Hanok-stay experience without putting a strain on your pocket.

4. Hide & Seek Guesthouse: Not your traditional Hanok, but a contemporary guesthouse that houses a quaint brunch cafe. Featuring spacious and cozy rooms, Hide & Seek Guesthouse offers ample space and comfort, making it an excellent option for both families and couples alike.

5. Hanok Guesthouse Nuha: Crowned as one of the top Hanok stays in Seoul, the Hanok Guesthouse Nuha offers more than just lodging. The proprietors prepare a delightful traditional Korean breakfast every morning, starting your day on a flavorful note. Experience authentic Korean hospitality at its finest within the comfort of this high-rated stay.

All these establishments have strict safety and sanitation protocols in place to ensure a safe and clean environment for their guests. You can book a room online and rest assured of a splendid and hassle-free stay in the mesmerizing village of Seochon.

Savouring the Best Delights in Seochon, Korea

Seochon, a distinct and vibrant neighbourhood in Korea, is a culinary experience not to be missed. Offering a multitude of dining options beyond the popular Tongin Market, the area is packed with a variety of unique and delectable restaurants and coffee shops that are definitely worth exploring. The following are a few standout options that are truly worth sampling.

1. Tosokchon Samgyetang

An absolute must-visit, Tosokchon Samgyetang is one of the most authentic and respected restaurants in the area. Situated within an expansive, traditional hanok house, it is renowned for having some of the best samgyetang in Seoul. Samgyetang is a delectably hearty chicken ginseng soup that is often accompanied by a variety of side dishes and a shot of invigorating ginseng liquor. This gastronomic delight provides a genuine taste of Korean tradition.

2. Tongin Sweet

For those with a sweet tooth, Tongin Sweet will not fail to impress. Specialising in egg tarts alone, this spot is a testament to the Korean mastery in perfecting simplicity. Additionally, they offer a selection of drinks to complement your sweet treat. The café provides an intimate setting with limited seating indoors and outdoors. Due to its unique offering, Tongin Sweet has gained recognition and has been featured on multiple television shows.

So, during your visit to Seochon, don’t miss out on its dynamic culinary scene. These eateries, among many others, allow you to dive into an experience of the area’s rich and diverse gastronomy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Seochon Village?
Seochon Village, set in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, is a vibrant neighbourhood rooted in rich history. This charming neighbourhood is famed for its traditional Korean architecture, exemplified by its historic buildings and homes. Seochon Village’s narrow, intriguing alleyways make for a quaint yet captivating journey through a piece of Korea’s storied past.

What are some must-visit attractions in Seochon Village?
Seochon Village is a treasure trove of attractions that visitors should definitely explore:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: This beautiful edifice, a testimony to Korea’s regal past, stands as one of the village’s most iconic landmarks.
• Changdeokgung Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its unique architectural attributes and its Secret Garden.
• Bukchon Hanok Village: Located nearby, this traditional village provides another chance to immerse oneself in historic Korean culture.
• Insadong: Known for its traditional Korean art markets, tea houses, and antique stores, it’s a vibrant cultural hub.
• Moreover, Seochon Village is home to a plethora of cafes, restaurants, and traditional Korean shops providing authentic culinary experiences.

How do I get to Seochon Village?
Situated in the Jongno-gu district of Seoul, Seochon Village is easily accessible. Travellers can take the subway, bus, or taxi to get there:

• Subway: The nearest subway stations are Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3) and Anguk Station (Line 3).
• Bus: Visitors can also take a bus to either the Gyeongbokgung Palace stop or the Seochon Village stop.

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Planning your visit to Seochon Hanok Village in Seoul? Or have you previously visited Seochon and feel there’s something missing in our guide to Seochon Village activities? We would love to hear from you! Drop your suggestions and experiences in the comment section below.