Explore the Timeless Charm of Andong Hahoe Village

• 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 지내고요. 당신은?
  [jal jinaegoyo. dangsineun?]
• 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, please계산 부탁합니다
  [gyesan butakhamnida]

• Help!도와주세요!
  [dowajuseyo!]
• Go away!가라!
  [gara!]
• 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 looking구경만 하고 있어요
  [gugyeongman hago isseoyo]
• How much is it?얼마에요?
  [eolmaeyo?]
• That's too expensive너무 비싸요
  [neomu bissayo]
• Can you lower the price?가격을 깍아 주실 수 있나요?
  [gageogeul ggaga jusil su innayo?]

• What time is it?지금 몇 시에요?
  [jigeum myeot sieyo?]
• It's one o'clock한 시예요
  [han sieyo]
• Half past (10)10시 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...?어디에 ...이/가 있어요?
  [eodie ...i/ga isseoyo?]
• What's the address?주소가 뭐에요?
  [josoga mwoeyo?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?지도로 보여주세요
  [jido ro boyeojuseyo]
• When's the next (bus)?다음 (버스) 언제와요?
  [daeum (beoseu) eonjewayo?]
• A ticket (to ....)표를 주세요 (...으로)
  [pyoreul juseyo (...euro)]

Founded in the 15th century during the early Joseon Dynasty, Andong Hahoe Village emerged as a prime example of a traditional Korean clan village. The village is shaped like a lotus flower, symbolizing harmony and peace, and is nestled by the Nakdong River. The Ryu clan of Pungsan established the village, and their legacy continues to influence its cultural and historical landscape.

Hahoe Village is a living embodiment of Confucian ideals, reflecting the values of filial piety, respect for elders, and community harmony. The village hosts several Confucian academies, such as the Byeongsan Seowon, a Confucian academy founded in 1613 by esteemed scholars to educate the local gentry and promote Confucian learning. The architecture and layout of the village, with its well-preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses), further emphasize these principles.

In 1999, Queen Elizabeth II visited Andong Hahoe Village during her tour of South Korea. This high-profile visit brought global attention to the village, highlighting its cultural and historical significance. The Queen was particularly impressed by the Mask Dance Drama, a traditional performance that has been preserved for centuries. A small monument in the village commemorates her visit.

The Hahoe Mask Dance Drama, known as Hahoe Byeolsingut Tallori, is a significant cultural heritage of the village. This traditional Korean mask dance dates back over 500 years and is performed to appease local deities, ensure a bountiful harvest, and ward off evil spirits. The dance is characterized by its distinctive wooden masks and satirical narrative, often depicting various societal issues and human follies.

In 2010, Andong Hahoe Village, along with Yangdong Village, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the collective name 'Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong.' This recognition was due to the villages' exceptional preservation of Joseon-era architecture, Confucian cultural practices, and the unique blend of natural and built environments. The UNESCO status has further elevated Hahoe Village's importance as a cultural and historical landmark.

Ryu Seong-ryong, a prominent scholar and chief state councilor during the Joseon Dynasty, was born in Hahoe Village. He played a crucial role during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592-1598) and authored the 'Jingbirok,' a detailed account of the war. His residence, Yangjindang House, still stands in the village, offering a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of Korea's most respected historical figures.

Andong Hahoe Village is located in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, South Korea. The nearest airport is Daegu International Airport, approximately 90 kilometers away. From Daegu, you can take a bus from the Dongdaegu Bus Terminal to Andong Bus Terminal, which takes around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a KTX high-speed train from Seoul to Andong Station, which takes around 2.5 hours. From Andong Bus Terminal or Andong Station, local buses or taxis can take you directly to Hahoe Village.

Within Andong Hahoe Village, most attractions are accessible on foot, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty and traditional architecture. For longer distances, local buses operate on regular schedules from Andong to Hahoe Village. Taxis are also readily available and can be a convenient option. Renting a car is another alternative for those who prefer to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace.

The official currency in South Korea is the South Korean Won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Andong Hahoe Village. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are available in Andong city, but may be limited in the village itself, so it's a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash before arriving.

Andong Hahoe Village is generally very safe for tourists. The village is a peaceful area with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions: avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in the village.

In case of emergency, dial 119 for immediate assistance, which covers fire, medical emergencies, and police. The nearest medical facilities are in Andong city, which is around 30 minutes away by car or bus. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Andong where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting cultural and historical sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering traditional houses. 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 and a smile. A simple 'Annyeonghaseyo' (hello) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t waste food, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Andong Hahoe Village like a local, attend the traditional mask dance performances that take place regularly. Engage with local artisans who make traditional Korean crafts. Visit the village early in the morning to enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful landscapes without the crowds. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Andong's famous jjimdak (braised chicken) and other local delicacies. Take a leisurely walk along the Nakdong River for a picturesque view and a glimpse into the everyday life of the villagers.