Seoul's Bukchon Hanok Village to Limit Tourist Access Amid Overcrowding

Overtourism Threatens Village's Historic Charm and Residents' Quality of Life

Seoul's Bukchon Hanok Village, a popular tourist destination known for its traditional Korean houses, is implementing measures to limit visitor access due to excessive tourism. The village, nestled between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, has seen a surge in visitors in recent years, leading to overcrowding, noise, and disruption for residents.

Stricter Access Rules to Preserve Heritage and Community

Effective March 1, 2023, visitors to Bukchon Hanok Village will be required to make reservations in advance to access the village during peak hours (9 am to 6 pm). Reservations can be made through the official Bukchon Hanok Village website or mobile app. The village will also introduce a quota system to limit the number of visitors at any given time.

These measures aim to address concerns raised by residents about the negative impact of overtourism on their daily lives. The village's narrow streets and traditional houses are not designed to accommodate large crowds, leading to safety hazards, noise pollution, and damage to the delicate historic structures.

Balancing Tourism and Preservation

The decision to limit tourist access was made after extensive consultations with residents and stakeholders. The village authorities recognize the importance of tourism for local businesses and the city's economy. However, they emphasize the need to strike a balance between tourism and the preservation of the village's unique heritage and the well-being of its residents.

The new reservation system will allow visitors to plan their trips in advance and avoid disappointment. It will also help manage crowd levels and improve the overall visitor experience. The village authorities hope that the measures will encourage responsible tourism and promote a more sustainable approach to heritage preservation in Seoul.