Written by: Isha Singh, Delhi

Edited by: Tahoora Charfare, Yanbu, Saudi Arabia

Do you wish to live in and experience a traditional house that makes you feel royal yet grounded? Read more about Hanoks and tick it off your bucket list.

With the growth of technology and modern architecture, many traditional houses and old buildings were demolished, but Hanoks (한옥) still have a special place in the hearts of Korean people. The architectural heritage of Hanok houses can be traced back to the rich history of the “Three Kingdoms” period in Korean history, spanning from the 1st century BC to the 7th century AD. During this era, a unique architectural style was cultivated by the Korean people, drawing influence from neighboring countries such as China and Japan. This cross-cultural exchange gave rise to the distinctive Hanok houses, characterized by their elegant wooden construction and gracefully curved rooflines, which continued to captivate observers with their timeless charm and historical significance.

As Korea entered the 14th century during the Joseon dynasty, the Hanok’s became more refined and sophisticated because of the Yangbans, who were the ruling classes of that period. According to a broad definition, it is not only referred to as ‘Korean houses’ but also Buddhist temples, Confucian shrines, and modern buildings that were designed and built in the style of a Hanok. Instead of focusing mainly on wooden architecture, Hanok focuses more on accomplishing the basic needs of the residents by creating a healthy environment and establishing a strong relationship between human beings and nature.

Hanok is made of components of nature like wood, stone, etc. A Hanok mainly consists of two main components: Ondol (responsible for underfloor heating) and Maru (responsible for cooling). One of the most unique features of Hanok is the coexistence of these two components in harmony, creating relief for residents in all seasons. Red clay is applied to roofs and wooden walls because of its humidity-regulating ability, thereby keeping the Hanok warm in winter and cool in summer. Hanok is also known as the ‘House that breathes’ because of the traditional Korean paper, Hanji which covers the ceiling, doors, walls, and sometimes even the floor. Instead of keeping the doors open, the air holes present in Hanji let the air in and out. Due to its capability of moisture absorption, it also helps in balancing the humidity level. 

The structure of Hanok usually consists of columns, purlins, crossbeams, and various connectors. Hanok is usually small but very spacious. The boundaries between the rooms are not important. The structure is centered around columns and the Bo. Instead of the walls carrying the pressure, columns bear it all, while Bo is responsible for connecting the back and front. Daedulbo is a cross beam that intersects the pillars and is responsible for supporting the roof. The edges of the roofs are a plus point to the attractiveness of the Hanok and its length controls the amount of sunlight. The rafters are called Seokkarae, while the short and long rafters are known as Danyeon and Jangyeon. Sarangchae is a place where guests are entertained.

Though the basic framework of the Hanok is similar to that of ordinary families, some upper-class families tend to add to it to show their social status. Usually, Hanok’s have beautifully colored patterns and follow the traditional Korean five-color combination, thereby making them simple yet attractive. 

Bukchon Hanok village is a traditional northern village located between Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeok Palace and Jongmyo Royal Shrine. During the Joseon Dynasty, upper-class families and nobility used to live in traditional Hanok’s. However, with time, these Hanok’s were occupied by the common people and were considered inferior compared to modern houses and apartments. 

With the new legislation that came into the picture, these old traditional houses have been protected, have been turned into historical attractions and have been popular among foreigners. Sinhanok is a term referring to the Hanok’s, which do have a traditional look to them but are made of modern material to survive in this modern era. This new Hanok trend has been really popular amongst tourists and youth in recent years. Many entrepreneurs have opened guesthouses, art galleries, cafes inside the Hanok’s, and museums to reflect Korea’s cuisine and rich history.

Some of the most popular sightseeing places located in this area are the Donglim Knot Museum, Gahoe Museum, Bukchon Traditional Culture Center, Bukchon Asian Art Museum, Bukchon-ro 12-gil, etc. Tourists are often fascinated by the beautiful alleys surrounded by nature and the everyday lives of Koreans that run through them. Many tourists often rent a hanbok at Bukchon-ro 12-gil for approx. 7,000 KRW per person to capture themselves in front of a Hanok. Bukchon Hanok village has been insanely popular amongst K-drama die-hard fans. Be it the Sanggojae house in the K-drama “Personal Taste” or Bukchon-ro 11-gil in “She Was Pretty,” all these attractions are loved both by the locals and tourists alike.

Thanks to this resurgence of interest in the Hanok houses, many Hanok’s have been revived. More and more Koreans are stepping forward to spread awareness about the preservation of the beautiful Hanok’s and the culture related to them. Hanok’s are the essence of Korea and should be revived forever. 

Do you wish to live in such houses, or have you ever visited a Hanok? Let us know in the comment section; we would love to know about your thoughts and hear your experiences.