If you’re a history nerd like me, you’re gonna want to check out the Korean Folk Village in Yongin. I honestly geeked out the entire time I was there! Learn all about our customs and eat some bomb food. I promise it’s well worth the trip wherever you are!
This Joseon period village contained reconstructed homes from all over the country, and they had people assuming crucial roles throughout. You can see a maskmaker working diligently below!
For hours and pricing, click here. And FYI, you get a discount if you’re a foreigner. I can’t find it on their website right now, but that’s ok – just let them know at the ticketing booth. All you have to do is say a quick phrase in Korean to save a few bucks!
There was so much good food here, it was straight up stupid. I ate lunch at the Bazaar, but I indulged in a snack (…or 3) near the entrance. It was street food done oh so right, and I’d honestly go back just to get my nom on again.
This stand had hotteok, ddukbokki, odeng and magic. I may or may not have had 3 of their honey hotteoks, and no, I’m not sorry because they were worth every calorie and then some. They were fried fresh in front of my eyes, and my mouth’s literally salivating right now just at the thought of them.
Think of them as sweet korean dessert pancakes with honey and brown sugar inside. You can also get them with cheese, but their honey ones were so good I didn’t want to get anything else. On top of their fish cake skewers, they fried some fresh on the spot. They usually only do this in the morning though so make sure you get their bright and early.
The bazaar had all kinds of food! You have to order and pay at the register first before picking up noms at their respective stalls. They had 9 or 10 if I remember correctly.
My mom and I got a potato pancake and soondae (blood sausage) to share, and although they were solid, I regretted not eating more at the aforementioned stall above. It all boils down to preference though so do whatever your tummy craves.
I was full from all the food I had, but it was warm and I was dehydrated so I got a drink to cool down. I grew up enjoying misu garu, but it’s been a minute so I decided to take a stroll down memory lane and indulge.
Misu is traditional grain powder. I know that doesn’t sound exciting, but trust me when I say it’s a damn tasty drink. It’s made with a combo of 7-10 grains, and people sweeten it with honey. It’s nutritious so as long as you don’t overdo it with sweetener, you can have it for breakfast.
The Korean Folk Village is HUGE, and they have several exhibition halls inside. I especially loved their traditional folk displays. They have over 860 cultural artifacts so there’s a lot to see. Below, you see korean women in hanbok making different kinds of kimchis.
Here are manuscripts, books and writing utensils.
If you’re looking for dope photo opps, you’re gonna love visiting the Korean Folk Village. They actually have a pamphlet with instagram worthy places listed so wear something cute but comfortable when you go.
Also, I’m not sure how many of you are familiar with this practice, but people love renting traditional Korean garb for the occasion. There are hanboks everywhere you look, and you’ll see a king or queen walk by from time to time as well. If you want to dress up, you can rent these nearby before you enter Min Sok Chon.
Now, onto the highlight of my day: the live performances. They don’t have a list of times on their website, but they’ll give you all the info you need when you enter. I watched several different groups dance and play traditional instruments, and I was wigging the eff out. They did an amazing job, and I was transfixed pretty much from start to finish. Pro tip: come on a weekend if you can because they don’t offer all shows during the week.
Also, I don’t have a picture of this, but there’s an amusement park here as well so make sure to bring your liddol ones. I’m not big on rollercoasters so I didn’t pay the additional fee to enjoy, but everyone seemed to be having a great time!
Alright friends, I hope you enjoyed my latest Korea post. For more on my trip, check out my post on Signiel, flying first class to Asia, and my travel guide to Udo. Until next time, friends! Sending hugs.
Nice pictures,.. Especially the food pictures were mouth watering,…