Seoul’s Bukchon Hanok Village Imposes Tourist Limits; Here's All You Need To Know

In many countries, overtourism has become a significant issue. The increasing number of visitors has led to many regions being overwhelmed by tourists, resulting in negative impacts such as pollution and damage to local sites. To address this problem, South Korea is implementing new curfew measures in Seoul’s historic Bukchon Hanok Village. A trial phase is set to begin in November, with complete implementation expected by March of next year. This policy will restrict tourist access to some regions of Bukchon from 5 PM to 10 AM. The goal is to relieve pressure on the local community, and violators may face fines of up to 100,000 won (approximately $72). This initiative has sparked a debate among residents, business owners, and tourists about the implications of these restrictions.

To enhance the visitor experience and ensure the safety of both tourists and residents, district officials will implement restrictions on tourist access to the acclaimed village beginning this October. This initiative will establish the nation’s first-ever “special management area” under South Korea’s Tourism Promotion Act, paving the way to curb overtourism and for a more sustainable and enjoyable tourism model.

In 2023, it attracted an astounding 6 million visitors, dwarfed by its local population of just around 6,100. Much like other popular tourism destinations like Venice, this overwhelming influx of tourists has sparked a rise in complaints from residents regarding noise, littering, and privacy concerns. It’s crucial to balance tourism with the local community's well-being to preserve this historic area's charm. In response to public input, multilingual signs warning tourists about noise levels were successfully installed in 2018, reinforcing a commitment to maintaining a harmonious environment for all.

About The Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is celebrated for its stunning and beautifully preserved traditional Korean houses, known as “hanok,” and is one of Seoul’s most captivating tourist destinations.The heritage village is an absolute must-visit for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the beauty of Seoul as it was 600 years ago. This enchanting area transports you to the heart of the Joseon Dynasty, offering a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of the upper class through its well-preserved artefacts. Nestled north of Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village includes the charming neighbourhoods of Wonseo-dong, Jae-dong, Gye-dong, Gahoe-dong, and Insa-dong.

With a history dating back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897), "Bukchon," meaning "north town," invites you to discover its rich heritage and cultural significance. Its popularity has surged, particularly after being showcased on a popular television series.

What The Rules Will Entail

To foster a more enjoyable atmosphere for everyone, strict curfews for non-residents will be enforced daily from 5 pm to 10 am. Furthermore, chartered buses transporting tourists in specific areas will be limited. As officials highlighted, this initiative seeks to alleviate traffic congestion and reshape Bukchon into a more pedestrian-friendly zone. In addition, to improve crowd control in the busiest regions, three distinct colour-coded zones—red, orange, and yellow—will be established. These zones will enable local authorities to monitor and manage crowd sizes effectively. Those who violate these regulations will incur fines, ensuring compliance while safeguarding the community.