Hakindang is a stunning hanok house located in the tourist center of Jeonju. The house was built using traditional methods dating back to the Joseon dynasty. It once belonged to the Suwon Baek clan, which was part of the upper class Korean society.

main gate Mr.Sunshine

This has always played an important role in history, during the Joseon dynasty, the occupation of Korea and even after the liberation. It is therefore considered as the most culturally significant house in the whole Jeonju Hanok Village. It was constructed under the rule of King Gojong, who gave special permission to the Baek family to build this hanok. The work took almost 3 years to complete and must have cost a fortune back in those days. The building has a ㄱ shape (a letter in the Korean alphabet) and has similar architectural features to the royal palaces back in Seoul.

Living room

The first thing to notice when entering the house is the grand open bright space. The big windows, the wooden floors and high ceilings were all created for a specific reason, namely containing the sound within the building. The first owner of the house used this main space as a concert hall for all kinds of pansori performances. Now this space is turned into a cozy living and tea room, only the occasional performances are still held here.

main house Mr.Sunshine

Hakindang is a very famous hanok, featured in multiple movies and Korean dramas, with the latest one being Mr. Sunshine. A heroic Korean drama about the fall of the Joseon dynasty, the Japanese invasion and the Korean freedom fighters. The drama has five different main characters, each one from a different social class and background story. During the drama, the viewer follows the story of each of these characters from childhood to around 30 years later where somehow they turn out to be connected to each other in a way. One of these characters is Kim Hee-sung, a young Joseon nobleman who was considered the richest person in the country after the Emperor. His parents live in a stunning and grand hanok, Hakindang. The garden, main living room and master bedroom were used as film sets for this drama.

The current owner of the hanok is really passionate about the history of the house and only accepted to be featured in the Mr. Sunshine drama because the story of Kim Hee-sung’s family is similar to that of her family. During the Japanese invasion her family also secretly supported the Korean rebels, just like Kim Hee-sung. For fans of Lee Byung-hun and the drama, this is a must visit and will be a memorable experience.

Because of the success of Mr.Sunshine, the house was finally opened to the public. A reservation through their website is required before visiting or staying the night in this wonderful hanok.

Mr.Sunshine garden

Hagindang

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confucian academy

From Hakindang it is a short walk along the river to Jeonjuhyanggyo, a Confucian school dating back to the Joseon dynasty. The school lies a little outside the city center, but is such a calm and peaceful place that you will not regret paying a visit. Jeonjuhyanggyo used to be an educational center during the Joseon dynasty for the rich young noblemen sons.

Confucian academy in summer

It is completely free to enter and a great place to take pictures, especially during the autumn and spring season as that's when the colours of the leaves are turning yellow or pink. Compared to the busy hanok village, this site receives few tourists, perfect for those looking to escape the bustling area and relax on the 2nd floor of the entrance gate. The open space overlooks the school garden and Jeonjucheon Stream.

Confucian academy in summer

Jeonjuhyanggyo Confucian School

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Pungnamheon is a traditional Korean hanok house in the center of the Jeonju Hanok Village. It is located on one of the main streets and only a 5 minute walk away from the place. This hanok is perfect for people looking to have the ultimate Korean experience. From our experience it is a great experience for couples to go to; families or a group of friends would need biggers rooms.

Hanok courtyard doors

The owners are really welcoming upon arrival and were instantly ready to help with any questions regarding tourist sites or restaurants in the area. There are different sized rooms in the hanok for 2 up to 4 people. Stunning floor mattress and covers give it that extra cozy atmosphere, especially in winter as the ondol floor heating system warms the whole room. What's unique about this hanok is the fact that there is a pet chicken roaming the inner courtyard, and greeting all the guests with its gentle squawks.

Breakfast is not included, but this is not an issue as there are many breakfast and brunch restaurants located within 100 meters. The restaurant that was recommended to us by the owner of the hanok is Sambeak Jib, which is one of the most famous sprout soup restaurants in the country.

Double bedroom

Inner courtyard

Starting at 8:30 in the morning, Koreans start queuing for this small restaurant. The restaurant only sells 300 dishes a day. When all sold out, it closes its doors for the day. The restaurant only serves 4 kinds of main dishes together with some sides and moju.

Moju is a traditional Korean alcohol that is local to the Jeonju area. The brown colored liquid has a very low alcohol percentage and is made with cinnamon, ginger and medicinal ingredients. A must try when in Jeonju.