Taste of South Korea

  Hello, global travelers! Welcome back to my blog.  So far, we’ve explored Seoul's iconic historic spots like Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seochon, and the beauty of Hanbok. Today, I’m taking you to a place that offers a completely different vibe from Bukchon. If Bukchon feels like a grand, quiet museum, this place is alive, bustling, and incredibly hip. Let’s dive into Ikseon-dong Hanok Village (익선동 한옥마을) ! 🕒 The Story Behind Ikseon-dong Established in the 1920s, Ikseon-dong is one of the oldest Hanok (traditional Korean house) residential areas in Seoul. It was originally built to provide affordable housing for working-class citizens during a turbulent historical era. For decades, it remained a forgotten, aging neighborhood. However, young Korean artists and entrepreneurs recently breathed new life into it. They transformed these century-old houses into trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, creating a unique "Newtro" (New + Retro) culture. ✨ What M...