Hahoe Folk Village in Andong, South Korea, is history you can walk through. Established in the 14th–15th centuries during the early Joseon Dynasty, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, nestled in a graceful bend of the Nakdong River and framed by forested hills and cliffs. Dirt paths wind between stone walls and traditional courtyards, creating the sense that time here has simply slowed rather than passed.
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What makes Hahoe truly remarkable is that life in the village never stopped. Many residents are descendants of the Ryu clan, a noble family whose presence dates back to the Joseon era. Their stately tile-roofed houses stand alongside the thatched cottages of farmers, a layout that once reflected Confucian ideals of harmony—where nobles upheld learning and ritual while villagers sustained the community through their labour. Today, around 120 households still live within the village, carrying on traditions that link daily routines with centuries of history.
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Another must-visit in Andong is the Hahoe Mask Museum, which showcases one of Korea’s most enduring traditions: the Hahoe mask dance-drama. This centuries-old performance blends humour, satire and music, with each mask designed to bring a character vividly to life. Some masks date back to the late Goryeo and early Joseon periods, their exaggerated features as striking now as they were hundreds of years ago. Figures like the proud yangban (nobleman) and the mischievous choraengi (servant) were crafted not just for entertainment, but to share stories that carried meaning for the community. Both of these a highlights of our Craig Travel Small Group Tour of South Korea and Japan, where travellers can experience the country not only through its historic treasures, but also through its enduring traditions and the warmth of its people.
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