Hahoe Village proudly holds a place of UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites. Its origin is traced back to Joseon Dynasty, fostering traditions that have endured for six centuries.

Among its many distinctions, Hahoe Village stands out as the birthplace of Hahoetal, traditional Korean masks used in performance. Visitors can catch a glimpse of these intriguing mask faces at the souvenir shop.

Take a look at the map displayed on the information panel. It illustrates the village’s unique setting, nestled amidst mountains on one side and bordered by a flowing river on the other side, with the Nakdonggang River curving along its boundary. The name ‘Hahoe’ literally means ‘a river that circles around.’

In Korea, traditional villages were established by both close and distant relatives of a family. Hahoe Village was largely populated by the Ryu family, which includes significant historic figures in Korean history. Notably, Ryu Seong-ryong played a crucial role during the 16th century war with Japan, significantly bolstering Joseon’s military power and contributing immensely to the nation’s recovery from a critical juncture.

Renowned as a haven for nobles and scholars, Hahoe Village’s legacy and customs persist through the ages, upheld by descendants of the Ryu family who continue to call the village their home, safeguarding its integrity and cherished traditions to this day.