Park Jin-hai primarily focuses on K-dramas, entertainment shows and actor interviews. Beyond that, she also pens articles covering the broader arts scene, with a particular emphasis on classical music, dance and various aspects of lifestyle. Since joining The Korea Times in 2013, she has made significant contributions in the realms of hallyu (Korean wave), industry news and international affairs.
4 iconic hanok K-drama fans must visit in May
Seonungak, a Korean traditional house whose iconic stone-walled path is featured in the tvN drama "Mr. Sunshine" (2018), is now a cafe in Gangbuk District, Seoul. Courtesy of Seoul Tourism Organization
By Park Jin-hai
As May ushers in the full bloom of spring, there is no better time to rediscover hanok, Korea’s traditional architecture.
At the heart of these structures lies the profound philosophy of "chagyeong" — the art of "borrowing" the surrounding scenery to be in perfect harmony with the natural world. In a hanok, windows and doors are more than mere openings — they serve as living frames that capture the poetic transition of the seasons, inviting the mountains, wind and light to become part of home.
Transcending their roles as backdrops for Korea’s most celebrated films and dramas, these four estates serve as tranquil sanctuaries for the soul. They invite visitors to step beyond the screen, offering a rare opportunity to pause, breathe and rediscover the enduring grace of Korean heritage.
Seonungak is Seoul’s largest private hanok cafe in Gangbuk District. Courtesy of Seoul Tourism Organization
1. Seonungak: Regal elegance at foot of Mount Bukhan
Seonungak is seen in this scene from tvN drama "Mr. Sunshine" (2018). Courtesy of CJ ENM
Nestled deep in the valleys of Ui-dong, Seonungak is a grand estate where the rugged peaks of Bukhansan National Park serve as a breathtaking natural backdrop. Originally built in 1967 as an exclusive social club by Hyundai founder Chung Ju-young, it reopened in 2021 as Seoul’s largest private hanok cafe and wedding venue.
The sweeping grounds are perhaps most famous for standing in as the U.S. Legation where the protagonist Eugene Choi worked in the tvN drama "Mr. Sunshine" (2018) — one stone-walled path in particular remains a beloved photo spot for visitors. The estate features a contemporary main building with a terrace overlooking the mountains, while the interior of the connected hanok showcases traditional floor seating and large lanterns cast a gentle glow over ornate mother-of-pearl tables.
The true highlight of Seonungak is the courtyard and expansive lawn. Simply sitting under the eaves and gazing at the fresh greenery is enough to wash away the fatigue of daily life.
Baek In-je House in Jongno District, Seoul / Courtesy of Seoul Tourism Organization
2. Baek In-je House: Modern masterpiece in Bukchon
Baek In-je House is seen in JTBC drama "Reborn Rich" (2022). Courtesy of JTBC
Ascending the narrow alleys of Bukchon Hanok Village, visitors are greeted by an imposing gateway that prepares them for the grandeur of the Baek In-je House. This modern hanok, built in 1913, offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Seoul’s elite during the Japanese colonial era.
Constructed with premium black pine from the Yalu River, it passed through the hands of several prominent figures before being acquired in 1944 by Dr. Baek In-je, the pioneering founder of Paik Hospital.
What distinguishes this estate from others is its innovative architecture. Breaking from tradition, the men’s and women’s quarters are linked by an internal hallway, allowing movement throughout the house without stepping outside. The design also incorporates then-exotic touches like expansive glass windows and red brick walls.
This blend of tradition and modernity made it the perfect filming location for the residence of Chairman Jin Yang-cheol in JTBC drama "Reborn Rich" (2022) and an opulent estate in the film "Assassination" (2015). Visitors who book a guided tour via the Seoul Public Service Reservation website can walk these historic corridors, feeling as though they have stepped directly into a movie set.
Unhyeon Palace in Jongno District, Seoul / Courtesy of Seoul Tourism Organization
3. Unhyeon Palace: Private royal residence
Unhyeon Palace Yanggwan (Western House) is seen in tvN's "Guardian: The Lonely and Great God" (2016). Courtesy of CJ ENM
Nestled in the heart of Jongno’s skyscrapers, the thick stone walls of Unhyeon Palace offer a portal to the Joseon Dynasty. Once the private residence of Prince Regent Heungseon Daewongun and the childhood home of Emperor Gojong, this estate exudes a regal dignity that rivals the palaces themselves.
While the size of its original sprawling grounds were reduced over a century of history, the heavy timber pillars and tile roofs still whisper of the royal authority that resided here. The true allure of the palace lies in its profound stillness, making it a favorite escape for nearby office workers who spend their lunch breaks on the wooden porches, watching clouds drift past the eaves.
Visitors take a photo at Unhyeon Palace Yanggwan (Western House), located within Duksung Women’s University in Jongno District, Seoul. Korea Times file
Just beyond the traditional courtyard sits the Yanggwan ("Western House"), a Renaissance-style mansion built around 1912 by the Japanese colonial government as a strategic gesture to appease members of the Korean royal family. This striking white building, with its arched windows and intricate plum blossom crests, was a filming site for hit Korean dramas including tvN's "Guardian: The Lonely and Great God" (2016) and MBC's "Princess Hours" (2006) as well as most recently MBC drama "Perfect Crown."
The Seoul Tourism Organization's Bukchon Hanok Village course, led by a professional cultural tourism commentator, begins at Unhyeon Palace and weaves through historic sites such as the Seokjeong Borum Well, Gahoedong Catholic Church, Jeongdok Public Library and the Baek In-je House. Reservations can be made through the official Seoul Walking Tour website.
Suyeonsanbang's "Numaru," an elevated wooden porch that overlooks the garden, is located in Seongbuk District, Seoul. Courtesy of Seoul Tourism Organization
4. Suyeonsanbang: Literary sanctuary in Seongbuk-dong
Suyeonsanbang is seen in JTBC drama "The World of the Married" (2020). Courtesy of JTBC
Ascending the steep hills of Seongbuk-dong, visitors will find Suyeonsanbang tucked behind a weathered stone wall. Built in 1933 by Lee Tae-jun, a pioneer of the Korean short story, its name translates to "a mountain retreat where literati gather."
Its architectural crown jewel is its elevated wooden porch that overlooks the garden like a scene from a traditional painting. The meticulous harmony between the house and its surrounding greenery creates a cozy atmosphere where visitors can imagine literary giants like Yi Sang and Jeong Ji-yong spending nights debating life and art.
Today, Suyeonsanbang welcomes guests as a traditional teahouse. Stepping inside feels like entering a scholar's private study. Its poetic ambiance has made it a popular filming site for works like the film "The Housemaid" (2010) and the JTBC drama "The World of the Married" (2020).