Andong, South Korea Travel Guide

Discover Andong: A Journey Through Korean Tradition, History, and Culinary Delights in South Korea's Cultural Heart.

Nestled in the heart of South Korea, Andong is a city where history and culture come alive. Known as the 'Capital of Korean Spirit,' Andong offers a unique blend of traditional Korean culture, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Its rich history dates back over a thousand years, making it a treasure trove of cultural and historical sites. The Hahoe Folk Village is one of Andong's most famous attractions. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a living museum showcasing traditional Korean houses, known as hanok, and preserving the way of life from the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors can stroll through the village, see traditional mask dances, and even stay overnight in a hanok for a truly immersive experience. Andong is also famed for its annual Mask Dance Festival, which brings together performers and visitors from around the world. The festival features traditional Korean mask dances, known as talchum, along with international performances, parades, and various cultural activities. It is a vibrant celebration of the city's cultural heritage. Food enthusiasts will find Andong a culinary paradise. The city is renowned for its Andong Jjimdak, a delicious braised chicken dish, and Heotjesabap, a traditional meal that was once served to Confucian scholars. Local markets and restaurants offer these and other regional specialties, providing a taste of authentic Korean cuisine. Nature lovers will appreciate Andong's scenic landscapes, including the serene Nakdong River and the picturesque Buyongdae Cliff. The Andong Dam and nearby hiking trails offer opportunities for outdoor activities and breathtaking views. The city's blend of natural beauty and cultural richness makes it a perfect destination for tourists seeking an authentic Korean experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Andong.

Visit the Hahoe Folk Village early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
Attend the Andong Mask Dance Festival if you visit in October for a vibrant cultural experience.
Try the local dish, Andong Jjimdak, at a traditional restaurant for an authentic taste of the region.
Explore the Andong Dam area and take a boat ride on the Nakdong River for stunning views.
Stay overnight in a hanok (traditional Korean house) for a unique cultural experience.

Explore Andong: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Andong

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Andong Hahoe Folk Village

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Korea at Andong Hahoe Folk Village, a living museum of traditional architecture, customs, and vibrant festivals.

4.1

Buseoksa Temple

Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of Buseoksa Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary in the heart of Yeongju-si, South Korea.

4.6

Dosan Seowon

Explore the rich Confucian heritage at Dosan Seowon, a serene academy offering insights into Korean history amidst stunning natural beauty.

4.5

Byeongsanseowon Confucian Academy

Explore Byeongsanseowon Confucian Academy, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history, culture, and stunning natural beauty in Andong-si, South Korea.

4.5

Best landmarks in Andong

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Best Landmarks

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Andong Hahoe Folk Village

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Andong Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing traditional Korean life and stunning landscapes.

4.1

Dosan Seowon

Experience the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Dosan Seowon, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of Andong, Korea.

4.5

Sosuseowon Confucian Academy

Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Sosuseowon Confucian Academy, a cultural gem in Yeongju-si, South Korea.

4.4

Byeongsanseowon Confucian Academy

Explore the serene Byeongsanseowon Confucian Academy, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in Korea's rich philosophical legacy.

4.4

Best restaurants in Andong

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Iljik Restaurant

Experience authentic Korean cuisine at Iljik Restaurant in Andong-si - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

3.9

Okya Restaurant

Discover authentic Korean cuisine at Okya Restaurant in Andong-si - a culinary haven with rich flavors and welcoming ambiance.

4.1

헛제사밥까치구멍집

Experience authentic Korean flavors at 헛제사밥까치구멍집 in Andong - where tradition meets taste.

3.2

맛50년헛제사밥

Delve into authentic Korean flavors at 맛50년헛제사밥 in Andong-si – where tradition meets taste.

3.2

Best bars in Andong

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Daily Beer

Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse beer selection at Daily Beer, Andong's favorite pub for locals and tourists.

3.9

Andong Brewing Publichouse

Experience local craft brews and traditional Korean cuisine at Andong Brewing Publichouse, a vibrant hub of culture and community.

4.4

Alley

Experience the lively nightlife at Alley Bar in Andong-si, where unique cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere await every traveler.

4.7

서클페이스

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Andong-si at 서클페이스, where cocktails and live music create unforgettable memories.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Andong

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Andong Mask Festival Theatre

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Korea through mesmerizing performances at the Andong Mask Festival Theatre, a must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts.

4.4

hulk

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Hulk, Andong's premier night club, where music, dance, and fun meet in an unforgettable atmosphere.

5.0

풍산미드나이트

Discover the electrifying nightlife at 풍산미드나이트 in Andong-si, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences come together.

5.0

가요궁전

Immerse in the vibrant nightlife of Andong-si at 가요궁전, where music and culture collide in a lively atmosphere.

Best shops in Andong

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GS수퍼마켓 안동용상점

Discover the flavors of Andong at GS Supermarket Yongsang, your go-to spot for local produce and delicious ice cream.

3.9

낚시백화점

Explore the fishing paradise at 낚시백화점 in Andong-si, where fishing dreams come true with top-notch gear and expert advice.

4.3

썬마트

Explore Sun Mart in Andong for an authentic grocery shopping experience filled with local flavors and Korean delicacies.

4.1

달그림자

Experience the perfect blend of rich coffee and serene ambiance at 달그림자, Andong's hidden gem for coffee lovers.

4.4

Explore Andong on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Andong, mapped for you.

Andong Essentials

Andong is located in the Gyeongsangbuk-do province of South Korea. The nearest major airport is Daegu International Airport, approximately 90 kilometers away. From Daegu, you can take a direct bus or a train to Andong. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road or rail. Alternatively, you can take an express bus from Seoul, which takes about 3 hours.
Andong has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and taxis. The city is small enough that many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Renting a car can also be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace.
The official currency in South Korea is the South Korean Won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and traditional markets. ATMs are available throughout Andong, and most ATMs accept international cards.
Andong is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for police assistance and 119 for medical emergencies or fire. Andong has local police stations and medical facilities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering temples. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't speak loudly on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a slight bow or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Andong like a local, visit the Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can see traditional Korean houses (hanok) and cultural performances. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss trying Andong Jjimdak, a local chicken dish, at one of the traditional markets or restaurants.

When is the best time to visit Andong?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Andong

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Andong. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Hello안녕하세요
  [annyeonghaseyo]
- Goodbye안녕히 가세요
  [annyeonghi gaseyo]
- Yes예
  [ye]
- No아니요
  [aniyo]
- Please/You're welcome부탁합니다/천만에요
  [butakhamnida/cheonmaneyo]
- Thank you감사합니다
  [gamsahamnida]
- Excuse me/Sorry죄송합니다
  [joesonghamnida]
- How are you?어떻게 지내세요?
  [eotteoke jinaeseyo?]
- Fine. And you?잘 지내요. 당신은요?
  [jal jinaeyo. dangsineunyo?]
- Do you speak English?영어 할 수 있어요?
  [yeongeo hal su isseoyo?]
- I don't understand이해하지 못해요
  [ihaehaji mothaeyo]
- I'd like to see the menu, please메뉴를 보여주세요
  [menyureul boyeojuseyo]
- I don't eat meat고기를 먹지 않아요
  [gogireul meokji anayo]
- Cheers!건배!
  [geonbae!]
- I would like to pay, please계산할게요
  [gyesanhalkkeyo]
- Help!도와주세요!
  [dowajuseyo!]
- Go away!가세요!
  [gaseyo!]
- Call the Police!경찰을 불러주세요!
  [gyeongchareul bulleojuseyo!]
- Call a doctor!의사를 불러주세요!
  [uisareul bulleojuseyo!]
- I'm lost길을 잃었어요
  [gireul ilheosseoyo]
- I'm ill아파요
  [apayo]
- I'd like to buy...사고 싶어요...
  [sago sipeoyo...]
- I'm just looking둘러보고 있어요
  [dulleobogo isseoyo]
- How much is it?얼마에요?
  [eolmaeyo?]
- That's too expensive너무 비싸요
  [neomu bissayo]
- Can you lower the price?가격을 깎아 주실 수 있나요?
  [gageogeul kkakka jusil su innayo?]
- What time is it?지금 몇 시에요?
  [jigeum myeot sieyo?]
- It's one o'clock한 시에요
  [han sieyo]
- Half past (10)십 시 반
  [sip si ban]
- Morning아침
  [achim]
- Afternoon오후
  [ohu]
- Evening저녁
  [jeonyeok]
- Yesterday어제
  [eoje]
- Today오늘
  [oneul]
- Tomorrow내일
  [naeil]
- 1일
  [il]
- 2이
  [i]
- 3삼
  [sam]
- 4사
  [sa]
- 5오
  [o]
- 6육
  [yuk]
- 7칠
  [chil]
- 8팔
  [pal]
- 9구
  [gu]
- 10십
  [sip]
- Where's a/the...?...이 어디에 있어요?
  [...i eodie isseoyo?]
- What's the address?주소가 뭐에요?
  [jusoga mwoeyo?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?지도로 보여주세요
  [jidoro boyeojuseyo]
- When's the next (bus)?다음 버스는 언제와요?
  [daeum beoseuneun eonjewayo?]
- A ticket (to ....)표 한 장 주세요 (...으로)
  [pyo han jang juseyo (...euro)]

History of Andong

Andong's history dates back to the Three Kingdoms period of Korea, when it was known as Gochang. The city was officially founded in 930 AD during the Later Three Kingdoms period by King Taejo of the Goryeo Dynasty. This strategic location served as a key military base and cultural center in the region.
Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents the typical clan village of the Joseon Dynasty. Established by the Ryu clan in the 15th century, the village is renowned for its well-preserved traditional Korean houses and the unique mask dance drama, Hahoe Byeolsingut Talnori, which was performed to appease spirits and bring good fortune.
Andong has long been a center for Confucian learning and culture. The Dosan Seowon, established by the philosopher Yi Hwang, also known as Toegye, in the 16th century, remains one of the most prominent Confucian academies in Korea. The academy played a significant role in the spread of Confucian ideals and education.
The origins of Andong Jjimdak, a popular Korean dish, can be traced back to the Andong region. This spicy braised chicken dish is said to have been created in the traditional markets of Andong during the Joseon Dynasty. It has since become a culinary symbol of the city.
The Andong Mask Dance Festival, held annually in October, is one of the most famous cultural events in South Korea. This festival celebrates traditional Korean mask dances, known as Talchum, which date back to the Goryeo Dynasty. The festival attracts performers and visitors from all over the world, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Andong.
During the Korean War, Andong played a critical role as a strategic stronghold for South Korean and UN forces. The city was heavily contested and saw significant conflict, which left a lasting impact on its development and infrastructure. The resilience and recovery of Andong post-war is a testament to the spirit of its people.
Andong is famous for its traditional distilled liquor, Andong Soju. With roots dating back to the Goryeo Dynasty, this potent spirit was traditionally consumed by nobility and has been meticulously crafted following ancient recipes. Andong Soju is celebrated for its unique taste and cultural significance.