Wolseong Yangdong Village

Wolseong Yangdong Village

Wolseong Yangdong Village is situated along the ridges and valleys connected to the main peak of Seolchang Mountain and was established during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910) by the Yeogang Lee clan and the Wolseong Lee clan. The village has more than 150 houses, with most of the tiled-roof homes built on higher ground and thatched-roof houses located on flatter areas. This village, which gave rise to notable Neo-Confucian scholars such as Yi Yeon-dui (1491–1553), preserves three Treasures, twelve Important Folklore Materials, and three Gyeongsangbuk-do Tangible Cultural Properties. Among Korea’s six remaining traditional villages, Wolseong Yangdong stands out for its scale, state of preservation, and wealth of cultural heritage. On December 24, 1984, it was designated as Important Folklore Material No. 189.

Hyangdan – The elegantly roofed Hyangdan, situated on higher ground, features ornate eaves. It was a residence bestowed upon Yi Yeon-dui’s mother by King Jungjong in honor of Yi, who served as Gyeongsang Governor (an official title during the Joseon Dynasty). Originally consisting of 99 rooms, the house was reduced to just over 50 after a fire and is now Treasure No. 412. From Hyangdan, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Wolseong Yangdong Village.

Motien Hall – The refined and rustic Motien Hall was the ancestral home of the Yeogang Lee clan and served as a separate annex for receiving guests, reading, and resting. Its layout forms an “L” shape and includes ondol rooms and a main hall. The building is uniquely characterized by the coexistence of round and square pillars and is designated as Treasure No. 411.

Gwanjak Pavilion – Gwanjak Pavilion was once the residence of the scholar-official Sun Jung-tun (1506–1529). Centered around a courtyard, the structure features a symmetrical “L” layout with wings used by the male head of the household for living or receiving guests, and the main quarters inhabited by the female head. The name Gwanjak means “observing the crops,” symbolizing hopes for the prosperity and legacy of future generations. It is designated as Treasure No. 442.

Lecture Hall – Built in 1870, the Lecture Hall is a traditional school consisting of a main hall and other structures arranged in an “L” shape. A plaque inscribed with “Lecture Hall” hangs at the entrance of the main hall, opposite which stands the renowned Hyangdan. Location: 6 Yangdong-ri, Gangdong-myeon, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea. Admission: Free. Opening Hours: 24 hours. Transportation: Take bus 200, 201–208, 212, or 217 from the bus stop on the right side of Gyeongju Station for about 30–40 minutes and get off at the Folk Village Entrance. Notes: Opening Hours: 24 hours. Website: http://yangdong.invil.org/ (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese). Inquiry Hotline: Korea Travel Hotline +82-54-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese); Yangdong Folk Village +82-54-762-4541 (Korean).

Gyeongju, South Korea