Suncheon’s Naganeupseong Folk Village Offers a Living Glimpse into Korea’s Past
Suncheon, South Jeolla Province, South Korea – Naganeupseong Folk Village, a remarkably well-preserved walled town, continues to offer visitors a unique window into Korea’s Joseon Dynasty and a glimpse of traditional Korean life that persists to this day. Located in Nagan-myeon, the village, designated as historical site N0. 302, remains actively inhabited by around 100 households, many of whom continue to practice traditional farming and arts.
Originally constructed in 1397 by general Kim Bin-gil during the reign of King Taejo of Joseon, the fortress was initially built as a defense against Wokou pirates. It began as a sand wall but was later fortified with stone during the rule of King Injo to better withstand attacks from Japanese pirates. The village served as an administrative center for the county during the Joseon Dynasty.
What sets Naganeupseong apart is that it was primarily inhabited by common people, not aristocrats. This is reflected in the architecture, which features well-preserved hanok-style houses – traditional Korean homes characterized by straw roofs, clay rooms and Korean-style verandas. The village consists of three neighborhoods located inside the fortress walls, nestled on a level field surrounded by mountains.
The village’s enduring appeal lies in its authenticity. Unlike many historical sites that exist solely as relics of the past, Naganeupseong is a living, breathing community. Residents continue to maintain the traditional lifestyle, contributing to the village’s unique atmosphere and cultural significance.
Getting to Naganeupseong from Suncheon is relatively straightforward. From Suncheon Station, bus number 68 provides direct access to the village, taking approximately 45 minutes. Alternatively, travelers arriving at Suncheon Bus Terminal can take bus 63, which also takes around 40 minutes. The KTX train from Seoul to Suncheon Station, combined with the bus ride, offers the fastest route, taking approximately 4.5 hours. For those traveling from Seoul’s Central City Bus Terminal, an intercity bus to Suncheon Bus Terminal followed by bus 63 is an option, taking around 5.5 hours.
Visitors can explore the fortress, government buildings, and the cluster of traditional houses within the walls. The village is open from 9:00am to 5:30pm between November and January, extending to 6:00pm from February to April and October, and further to 6:30pm from May to September. Admission fees are ₩4,000 for adults, ₩2,500 for teenagers, and ₩1,500 for children.
While the village has been gaining popularity in recent years, it remains a relatively hidden gem for many travelers, offering a more intimate and authentic experience than some of Korea’s more well-known tourist destinations. The continued preservation of Naganeupseong Folk Village ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to connect with Korea’s rich history and cultural heritage.
