Gochogol Catholic Outpost

A Journey Through Time at Gochogol Gongso

The History and Story of Gochogol Gongso

• Gochogol Gongso is a Korean traditional worship hall with over 130 years of history located in Haki-ri, Wonsam-myeon, Cheoin-gu, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do.
• It is one of the places where Father Andrew Kim Taegon, the first Korean Catholic priest, carried out pastoral work, and it became a Catholic village formed by believers who gathered here to escape persecution in the late Joseon period.
• In 2018, it was designated as National Registered Cultural Heritage No. 708, and it has been preserved as a valuable heritage site of Korean Catholicism and modern hanok culture.

Architectural and Chapel Features

• This chapel preserves the warmth and simplicity of a hanok, and it was originally built by relocating a silkworm room building from a nearby old house.
• Although it was expanded around 1910 and underwent small interior changes in the 1970s, it still keeps much of its original appearance.
• In front of the building, you will find a simple stone wall and a stream, while at the back, traditional meju blocks hanging to ferment remain as part of the rural landscape.

Visiting Points with Kids

• Admire the hanok church: You can see the unique architecture of a "hanok church."
• History experience: Your family can get a sense of the hardships of Catholicism in Korea, the journey toward religious freedom, and the formation of Catholic villages.
• Traditional culture experience: At the back, you can observe traditionally fermented meju blocks and scenes related to making jang.
• Quiet walk: It is a lovely place for a peaceful walk with your kids, with the cozy feeling of visiting a grandmother's country home. You can quietly stroll around and enjoy time surrounded by nature.

Directions and Convenience Information

• If you are visiting by car, searching for "Gochogol Retreat House" will help you arrive easily, and there is parking available.
• If you are using public transportation, take Bus 11-1 from Yongin Bus Terminal, get off at the "Hakil Intersection" stop, and then walk for about 200 m to reach the site.
• There is space right in front for parking around 10 vehicles.

Notes

• As this is a religious facility, please make sure your kids do not get too noisy.

MomMom's One-Line Summary

"Gochogol Gongso is a place where you can encounter the painful history of modern Catholicism and the stories of a village in a hanok worship hall deep in the mountain valley. It is a wonderful spot to quietly walk with your kids and create special memories while experiencing traditional culture and nature."