Andong: The Heartbeat of Korean Culture and Tradition

• 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)]

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.

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.