Hahoe Village

Overview

Andong Hahoe Folk Village is a traditional village from the Joseon Dynasty, famously shaped like a lotus flower or the "S" shape of the Nakdong River that surrounds it. It is the birthplace of noted scholars and officials of the Pungsan Ryu clan. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010, it offers a rare glimpse into the living history of Korean clan-based villages and Confucian traditions.

History

The village dates back over 600 years and has been the home of the Pungsan Ryu clan since the early Joseon period. It is renowned for producing Great Minister Ryu Seong-ryong during the Imjin War. Unlike many other folk villages, Hahoe is a living community where residents still live in original tile-roofed houses (yangban residences) and thatched-roof houses (commoners' dwellings), preserving the social hierarchy and architectural styles of the Joseon era.

Things to see

Historical architecture and scenic viewpoints:

• The **Yangjindang & Chunghyodang**: Exquisite examples of Joseon-era head houses belonging to the Ryu clan.

• The **Buyongdae Cliff**: A 64-meter cliff across the river that offers a panoramic bird's-eye view of the entire village.

• The **Mansongjeong Pine Forest**: A serene forest planted to protect the village from the river's wind and landscape flaws.

Things to do

Cultural performances and local experiences:

• Watch the **Hahoe Byeolsingut Talnori**: A traditional mask dance drama performed for centuries to pray for the village's peace and prosperity.

• Cross the **Nakdong River by Boat**: Take a small boat to reach the foot of Buyongdae Cliff for a short hike.

• Stay in a **Traditional Hanok**: Experience an overnight stay in a centuries-old house to feel the authentic atmosphere of old Korea.