Sangchonjae

Sangchonjae, where you can experience traditional hanok culture in Seochon

Sangchonjae is a beautiful traditional hanok located in Seochon Village in Jongno-gu, Seoul, west of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Built in the traditional hanok style in the late 19th century, this building was once a long-abandoned house before being purchased and restored by Jongno-gu. Since 2017, it has been reborn as a cultural and hands-on experience space for citizens and children.

Key features of Sangchonjae

• A representative hanok where you can experience residential culture from the Joseon era
• You can see and experience the beauty of hanok and the excellence of traditional Korean architecture, including ondol, up close
• It has the traditional structure of a hanok, including the main quarters, sarangchae, and annex
• You can look around both indoors and outdoors, making it easy for your child to naturally experience traditional residential culture

Why it is great to visit with kids

• A variety of traditional culture programs are available
  Children can easily learn about Korean culture and enjoy making things by hand through regular programs such as trying on hanbok, traditional crafts such as making scented pouches and women's quarter crafts, Korean calligraphy, and seasonal customs events.
• A special Hangul experience
  Reflecting the meaning of Sejong Village as the birthplace of King Sejong, there are exhibits introducing the principles behind the creation of Hangul and its excellence, along with a hands-on postcard writing activity.
• Seasonal experience programs
  Events are held in line with traditional seasonal dates such as the winter solstice, Ipchun, and Dano, so the whole family can enjoy traditional culture with all five senses.

Visitor information and amenities

• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00 to 18:00 closed on Mondays
• Admission: Free
• Location: 12-11 Jahamun-ro 17-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Sangchonjae
• Public transportation: Easy walking access from Exit 2 of Gyeongbokgung Station on Subway Line 3
• Unavailable amenities: high chairs, nursing room, diaper changing station, stroller rental, parking, reservations

Helpful tips for your visit

• This hanok is near Tongin Market in Seoul, and you can look around inside for free.
• There are exhibits and videos about the structure of ondol.
• There is an ongoing scented pouch making paid experience, and you can join on site without a separate reservation.
• The activity is available for all ages, and you can also purchase only the finished product separately.
• Gyeongbokgung Palace and Tongin Market are nearby, so they are great to visit together.

Recommended for

• Families who want to experience traditional hanok and culture with their child
• Parents looking for a meaningful place to visit with their child while walking around Seochon or visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Children who want to play, learn, and experience Korean culture firsthand through traditional crafts and Hangul

"Sangchonjae is an ideal place in the middle of the city where you and your child can naturally see, enjoy, and learn about traditional Korean culture up close. If you apply for an experience program in advance before your visit, you can enjoy an even more enriching and special time."