Funday Guide: Bukchon & Anguk / May Issue, 2025

2025.05.09

Author: Corissa

Hey, Funday Friends!

Welcome to our Funday Guide, where we introduce places worth exploring around Korea.

A Brief Look at Anguk and Bukchon

If you’ve ever wandered around Jongno, you’ve probably passed through Anguk without realizing how much history is packed into this spot. During the Joseon Dynasty, officials and noble families lived here because it was close to Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Jongmyo. Today, Anguk is a starting point for exploring some of Seoul’s most famous cultural areas such as Insadong, as well as Unhyeongung Palace, small museums, and clusters of hanok buildings. It’s one of the few areas in the city where older architecture still remains.

From Anguk, it’s just a short walk to Bukchon, which means “northern village.” The area is known for its dense cluster of hanoks, with many of the original homes still standing. Historically, it was one of the city's most affluent neighborhoods.

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Cultural things to see and try in Bukchon and Anguk:

Cultural classes: In this area, you’ll find public cultural spaces offering short programs like cooking, knot-making, and other hands-on craft workshops. Most are easy to join and don’t take much time, so they're a good option even if you’re just visiting for an hour or two.

Tea houses: Local cafés serve traditional Korean teas like omija and ssanghwa-tang, often with sweets like yakgwa or dasik. The atmosphere is usually quiet and relaxed, making it a nice spot to take a break during a day out.

Hanbok rentals: This is the best spot you can rent hanboks and walk around the neighborhood. It’s a popular way to take photos near the palaces and old alleyways.

Craft galleries: A number of small galleries and workshops in the area feature ceramics, traditional Korean paper, and other handmade items by Korean artisans. Some are more formal exhibition spaces, while others are casual walk-ins.

Take a moment to read through this guide, where we will share some notable spots around Bukchon and Anguk. Spending a day out here, you’ll come across many galleries, cafés, and restaurants.

This is a special area to enjoy some of Seoul’s natural scenery mixed in with the city’s traditional charm.

Stay tuned as we continue to share more guides like this, curated to help you explore Korea!

	Wander through Bukchon Hanok Village: Hanji House Take your time walking around to explore the smaller streets in this town, and you’ll discover many art studios and shops you might have walked past otherwise. Most galleries are free and often have special events, so they're worth checking out: for example, Hanji House recently became one of my favorite spots to visit. It's a place where you'll learn about Korea's traditional handmade paper and see unique artworks and crafts made from it. Hanji House: 31-9 Bukchon-ro, Jae-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03055 서울특별시 종로구 북촌로 31-9 IG: @hanji.house
Visit Hansik Space I-eum If you enjoy food or want to try an affordable cooking class, Hansik Space I-eum is a great place to visit. The space introduces Korean cuisine through exhibitions, cooking sessions, and tastings. It is not only a fun way to learn about traditional Korean dishes but also a chance to meet new people and enjoy a shared experience. Families will especially appreciate the interactive programs, as they offer unique and enjoyable activities that everyone can participate in together. Classes are available in English, Chinese, and Japanese. 👉 Apply here: resv.hansik.or.kr Hansik Space Ieum: 03059 18 Bukchon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 서울 종로구 북촌로 18, 한식진흥원 IG:@hansik_official
	Explore Local Restaurants: Dansang Bukchon and Anguk have numerous delicious restaurants where you can enjoy local bites. You’ll find dishes like grilled fish, Korean Pancakes, bulgogi, and a variety of sides served with rice. Some restaurants stick to traditional recipes, while others offer more modern or seasonal menus. There are also casual spots that serve lighter meals or simple brunch options. Located down a smaller alley, Dansang, a restaurant that specializes in high-quality course food, is set inside a beautifully renovated hanok, making it a perfect spot for brunch with friends or family. Dansang: 84-5 Jae-dong, Jongno District, Seoul 서울특별시 종로구 재동 84-5 IG: @dansangkr
Take a Café Break: Osulloc Tea House, Nuldam Taking a break at a café is one of the best ways to enjoy Anguk and Bukchon. Together, these areas are known for a mix of modern coffee spots and traditional tea houses, making it easy to find something that suits your taste. Osulloc Tea House is a popular stop, especially if you’re into green tea or matcha-based desserts. It also has a rooftop space with a view over the neighborhood. For something quieter, Nuldam is a place to go. It's a cozy vegan café with a postal vibe touch where you can write letters to yourself and enjoy a view of the palace from your seat. Some cafés in the area focus on hand-drip or slow-brew coffee, while others serve seasonal teas and Korean snacks. Nuldam Cafe: 24 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 서울특별시 종로구 삼청로 24 IG: @nuldam_space	@nuldam_space