The historic village of Bukchon Hanok in Seoul will impose a tourist curfew over concerns about overtourism.
Rules and laws
30.10.2024 South Korea Seoul   11
The historic village of Bukchon Hanok in Seoul will impose a tourist curfew over concerns about overtourism.

New curfew policy aimed at controlling overtourism in Seoul's beloved hanok village of Bukchon is due to be trialled in November and could be officially launched by March next year. Dating back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897), this historic district is known for its iconic hanok houses and quaint alleys. But for locals, the influx of tourists has turned what was once a quiet residential area into a destination overrun with tourists, with an estimated six million visitors coming to Bukchon in 2023 alone.


Under the curfew policy, tourists will be prohibited from entering certain areas between 5pm and 10am, and anyone violating the curfew could be fined up to 100,000 won (about US$72). The restricted area will cover about 34,000 square meters - about five football fields - within Bukchon, in a major attempt by Jongno district authorities to restore peace and privacy to local residents.


Bukchon, with its beautifully preserved wooden houses and tiled roofs became a tourist sensation ten years ago after it was featured on a popular TV show. Since then, tourists have flocked to the area, both Koreans and foreigners, eager to experience the charm of traditional Korean architecture. Unfortunately, this rise in popularity has not come without casualties. Residents became frustrated with noise, litter and even incidents of tourists peeking into private homes. Many were so fed up that they decided to move, causing the village's population to decline by 27.6% over the past 10 years.


But not everyone is convinced a curfew will solve the problem. Residents say that while they appreciate the efforts, there are loopholes, such as exceptions for tourists spending the night in hanoks. The recent surge in corporate hanok parking, which has increased sharply since 2020 due to easing restrictions, has added another layer of complexity as 116 registered hanok businesses now flood Bukchon's residential areas.


The curfew has also prompted mixed reaction among tourists. Some support the initiative, saying residents' rights should be a priority, while others worry about possible fines and question how effectively the curfew can be enforced.


< p>As Seoul navigates the delicate balance between tourism and community, Bukchon Hanok Village is a test case for other historic districts around the world that are grappling with the impact of tourism.

Source: timesofindia

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