Korean Folk Village

Traditional Rustic Charm

By Gregory Curley

Contribute writer

Just beyond the sturdy, solemn wooden gates, laying stretched across a beautifully preserved, rustic landscape, a meandering path weaves its way endlessly through a scattered series of traditional reminders from a long time ago. The harmonious offering is known as the ``Korean Folk Village,’’ and remains a valuable experience for anyone wishing to learn more about the lifestyle Koreans were once accustomed to. All landmarks dotting the premises have been relocated and restored to provide visitors with a unique opportunity to come and sample Korean food, clothing and ancient lifestyle.

Opening its doors on October 3rd, 1974, the site occupies over 230 acres of natural environment and houses historic architecture _ more than 260 traditional buildings, with origins stemming all the way back to the late Joseon Dynasty.

Walking through its grounds, one soon gets a sense of what time was really like back then. Locals are dressed accordingly in classic, intricately woven garb and act out the various functions of villagers, which differ according to regional settings. The making of pottery, paper, fans, musical instruments and embroidery are all performed at respective workshops where their woodworking and sculpting techniques are showcased.

The village also has a street market, numerous restaurants and hosts equestrian skills, marriage ceremonies, and traditional dances.

If one wishes to scurry inside to beat the heat, one can visit the onsite Art and Folk Museums. The intimacy of both venues proves to be a preferred way through which to gain some insight into Korean culture and various folk customs that would otherwise lose their authenticity were they re-created or re-enacted in an open-air setting.

Fans of movies such as ``Scandal,’’ ``The King and The Clown,’’ and ``Taegukgi’’ will be happy to learn that the village brought production sets here to take advantage of its accurate portrayal and representation of the historical Joseon period.

The Korean Folk Village is located in Yongin, a suburb of Seoul, in the province of Gyeonggi.

gbcurley@gmail.com