Gentrification Threatens Bukchon Hanok Village. (Image: Korea Tourism Organization)
SEOUL, Aug. 17 (Korea Bizwire) – On August 16, the Seoul Metropolitan Government issued a press release stating that it would “diversify the uses of public hanok (traditional Korean houses) by transforming them into public amenities, hanok research centers and museums, rental homes, and more”.
Due to the increased gentrification of the Bukchon area in the heart of Seoul, where the famous hanok village is located, neighborhood businesses catering to residents have begun to close shop.
Due to the increased gentrification of the Bukchon area in the heart of Seoul, where the famous hanok village is located, neighborhood businesses catering to residents have begun to close shop. (Image: Yonhap)
In response, the city of Seoul began a campaign in 2001 titled “Hanok Regeneration in Bukchon” for which it was bestowed an Award of Distinction in 2009 by UNESCO.
The restorative measure entails the city buying up hanoks that are at risk of being demolished and renovating them for the purpose of housing neighborhood enterprises.
In response, the city of Seoul began a campaign in 2001 titled “Hanok Regeneration in Bukchon” for which it was bestowed an Award of Distinction in 2009 by UNESCO. (Image: Yonhap)
S.B.W. (sbw266@koreabizwire.com)
