Wanggok Village, Goseong

Set amid the striking natural scenery of the Donghae (East Sea) coast, this traditional hanok village is a clan settlement inhabited since around the fourteenth century by the Gangneung Ham, Gangneung Choe and Yonggung Kim clans, among others. Its origins trace back to Ham Bu-yeol, who withdrew here in seclusion at the end of Goryeo in opposition to the founding of Joseon; after the village was reduced to ruins during the Japanese invasions of 1592–98, it took shape gradually over the following roughly 150 years. The Ham, Choe and Jin clans form the majority, with Yi, Bak, Kim, Han and Yun families, among others, also resident. The tile-roofed houses, built around the nineteenth century, are all of the yangtongjip type, a house form found only in the northern part of Gangwon State. This structure is designed to withstand the region's long, cold winters, and is notably marked by a cattle shed set under the eaves in front of the kitchen. These houses have been well preserved in their original form, and the natural scenery, traditional houses and agriculture-based way of life have been carefully maintained across the village over a long period, giving it significance as a traditional folk village. ※ This heritage site is generally open to visitors, but access may be restricted at the discretion of the owner or for other personal reasons.

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Where it is

Region

Goseong, Gangwon

Designation

National Folklore Heritage · 국가민속문화유산