Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong

Hahoe and Yangdong are two villages in Andong and Gyeongju with traditional hanok houses arranged along winding paths on hillsides. The buildings show architecture from the Joseon period with typical features like wooden structures and sloped roofs.

These villages were founded during the Joseon Dynasty in the 15th century when the Ryu family settled in Hahoe and the Son clan in Yangdong. These early settlements shaped the villages' development and layout for the following centuries.

The mask dance performances of Hahoe, called Byeolsingut, show folk traditions that visitors can watch during seasonal performances. These dances reflect old beliefs and social structures that are visible in the movements and costumes.

The villages are reachable by regular bus services from Andong and Gyeongju, with trips lasting about 30 to 40 minutes. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the paved paths and stairs between houses are sometimes steep.

The Nakdong River curves around Hahoe village in a natural loop, creating a geographically enclosed settlement. This location allowed residents to keep their traditional way of life unchanged for centuries.