Hello everyone! Today, we're going to explore the essence of traditional Korean architectureat the Gangneung Seonkyojang. Seonkyojang, located in Gangneung, Gangwon-do, is a place where you can experience the architecture of a late Joseon Dynasty yangban (nobleman) residence. At Seonkyojang, you can catch a glimpse of Korea's unique beauty and the wisdom of our ancestors. Let's learn about it together!

When you enter Seonkyojang, the first thing that catches your eye is the grand gate. The seven-bay gate with a tiled roofis impressive, and it reveals the majestic presence of Seonkyojang. Passing through the gate, you enter a spacious courtyard, and you're enveloped in a serene atmosphere. In the back garden, a pond and gardenprovide a restful space. The 'ㅁ' (square) shaped arrangement of the buildings surrounding the courtyardis striking.

Seonkyojang's main building, 'Sangseondang,' is a structure that beautifully showcases the scale and splendor of Joseon Dynasty upper-class homes. Every architectural element, from the pillars and eaves to the latticework, is imbued with Joseon aesthetics. In particular, the elaborate and intricately carved dancheong (traditional colorful painting)is captivating. Dancheong is a traditional technique of decorating with five primary colors, and the dancheong of Seonkyojang boasts a delicate and vibrant beauty.

Stepping inside Sangseondang, you'll find 16 rooms. Each room, such as the master bedroom, the guest room, and the reception room, is designed for its specific purpose . Various traditional furniture and household items that you can admire in each roomvividly convey the lifestyle of our ancestors. You can also experience the comfort of the clean ondol (heated floor) roomsfor yourself.

The guest house, 'Gwanseonheon,' is also a remarkable building. The guest house served as a space for men, used for receiving guests, relaxing, and studying. The dynamic curves created by the pillars and raftersare impressive. The elaborate decorations that you might find in a palaceelevate the guest house's grandeur. The intricately crafted latticeworkis also worth paying attention to.

Throughout Seonkyojang, you'll find beautiful gardens. In the middle of the pond, there's a hexagonal pavilioncalled 'Chwibyeongjeong,'as well as 'Jukjeong' in the back gardenand 'Seokpajeong' in the backyard . Each pavilion offers stunning views. The sight of the old house reflected in the pond and the scenery seen from a pavilion are like a traditional East Asian painting . Take a break from your busy life and relax in Seonkyojang's beautiful garden . The sounds of bamboo swaying in the wind and birdsong blend together to create a natural melody that will bring peace to your mind.

At Seonkyojang, you can also participate in various programs that allow you to experience traditional activities. There are a variety of special cultural programs that you can only enjoy at Seonkyojang, such as experiencing traditional etiquette, trying on hanbok (traditional Korean clothing), tea ceremony, and enjoying traditional Korean music performances . Why not try directly experiencing the elegance and grace of our ancestors and enriching your mind?

Seonkyojang also hosts various exhibitions and events. Exhibitions showcasing the beauty of Korean culture, such as exhibitions of traditional crafts and calligraphy are held regularly. On special occasions, you can even witness a traditional wedding ceremony performance. As you watch the reenactment of the traditional wedding ceremony, you'll find yourself immersed in a mysterious and reverent atmosphere.

Seonkyojang has been used extensively as a location for filming dramas and movies. You can find Seonkyojang in historical dramas such as 'Queen Seondeok,' 'Jewel in the Palace,' 'Sungkyunkwan Scandal,' as well as in the movie 'Scandal: Makers of Joseon.' It'll feel as if you've become the protagonist of a drama or movieas you explore Seonkyojang, which adds a special kind of enjoyment to your visit.

Gangneung Seonkyojang, where the aesthetics of traditional Korean architecture come alive, is a place where you can rediscover the value of our country's cultural heritage. As you admire Seonkyojang's beautiful architecture and gardens, you'll be amazed by the wisdom and sensitivity of our ancestors . Why not immerse yourself in the old world charm for a while in the midst of your busy life? At Seonkyojang, you're sure to find peace and comfort.

I highly recommend a trip to Gangneung Seonkyojang, where tradition and modernity blend together. Create special memoriesin the beautiful and tranquil Seonkyojang. An experience that will heal your body and mindawaits you. I hope that your meaningful time at Seonkyojangwill bring you inspiration and vitalityin your life!