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South Korea is taking steps to preserve its cultural heritage by introducing new curfew measures and restrictions in Seoul’s historic Bukchon Hanok Village.
Over-tourism is a big problem in many countries. Too many visitors are overwhelming some places, causing pollution and damage to local sites. To fix this, South Korea is starting new rules in Seoul’s historic Bukchon Hanok Village. Effective from November 2024, Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) has put in some restrictions on who can visit the Bukchon Special Management Area. You can’t go there during the early mornings and late evenings. The restricted hours (Red zone) are from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 a.m. the next day. They’ll try out these rules in November and make them permanent by March next year.
If someone breaks the rules, they could face a fine of up to 100,000 won (about $72). This new rule has sparked a lot of discussion among residents, business owners, and tourists.
Why the restrictions are placed in Bukchon?
In 2023, this place welcomed a whopping 6 million visitors, which is crazy considering it only has about 6,100 residents. Just like Venice, this huge influx of tourists has caused a lot of complaints from the locals about noise, trash, and privacy. One must ensure that there is a balance of tourism with the needs of the local community. It will help keep this historic area from losing its charm.
This is implemented as Bukchon Hanok Village is essentially a residential area. The new rule aims to ease the burden on residents caused by over-tourism, like trespassing, privacy violations, and litter.
District officials are taking steps to make sure tourists and locals have a great time while also keeping the village safe. Starting this November, they have put some limits on how many tourists can visit the famous village. This is the first time South Korea has done something like this, and it’s all part of their plan to reduce the number of tourists and make tourism more sustainable and enjoyable for everyone.
What are the restrictions?
To make sure everyone has a great time, SMG is enforcing strict curfews for non-residents from 5 pm to 10 am every day. It’ll also be limiting the number of chartered buses that can take tourists to certain areas. The officials say this is all about easing traffic congestion and making Bukchon a more pleasant place to walk around. Unless you have an accommodation in the area or you’re shopping there, tourists won’t be allowed in during the early morning and late evening hours.
And to keep things under control in the busiest spots, SMG has divided the area into three different color-coded zones: red, orange, and yellow. This way, the local authorities can keep an eye on how many people are there and make sure everyone stays safe. If you break the rules, you’ll get a fine, so its best to follow the guidelines and have the best time!
After a short grace period until February 2025, anyone who breaks the rule after March 2025 will have to pay a fine of 100,000 won (about $72).
What is the Red Zone?
The “Red Zone” is behind the Jeongdok Library, between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, the most popular spot for tourists.
About the Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is a must-see for anyone looking to experience Seoul’s past. This charming village is filled with beautifully preserved traditional Korean houses called “hanok.” It’s like stepping back in time to the Joseon Dynasty, around 600 years ago. You’ll find all sorts of cool stuff here, like artifacts that show what life was like for the rich and famous back then. It’s located north of Gyeongbokgung Palace, and it includes the cute neighborhoods of Wonseo-dong, Jae-dong, Gye-dong, Gahoe-dong, and Insa-dong.
Bukchon has a long history, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). It means “north town,” and it’s a great place to learn about Korea’s rich culture and heritage.
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