Bukchon Ancient Village is like a vivid ink painting, with curved tiled roofs reflecting on small alleys, taking visitors into a peaceful, poetic world. Every corner of Bukchon tells a story about the heroic history of the Joseon Dynasty. Therefore, this place is one of the most famous attractions in the capital Seoul, attracting thousands of visitors every day.
The area was once home to high-ranking officials and aristocrats during the Joseon Dynasty, from 1300 to 1910. Today, around 6,000 residents live in hanoks that have been preserved almost intact since the Joseon Dynasty. It is also home to inns, handicraft shops, cafes, and several photo spots.
To protect the ancient Bukchon hanok village, the Seoul government has decided to limit the number of visitors starting from October.
Located in Jongno District, surrounded by Changdeokgung Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon offers a peaceful space, completely separate from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Along with the increasing number of tourists, complaints about noise from crowds of tourists gathering to take pictures, garbage problems and other privacy issues have also increased year by year, according to CNN.
To support the people living in these ancient houses, the Korean government plans to limit the number of tourists visiting Bukcheon village from October.
Every corner of Bukchon tells a story about the glorious history of the Joseon Dynasty, it is considered a living museum of the capital Seoul.
Accordingly, Bukchon will be designated as the first "special management zone" under the Korean Tourism Promotion Act. Strict restrictions on non-residents in the area have been strengthened.
Tourists will not be able to visit this place from 5 p.m. to 10 a.m. The following day, chartered tourist buses will also be restricted on some routes. The purpose of the regulation is to reduce traffic and overcrowding in Bukchon ancient village, according to the authorities.
However, according to those living and working in Bukcheon ancient village, the Seoul capital government's measure to limit tourists seems unreasonable, because tourists visit the ancient village mainly to take photos and only leave after sunset.
