Whenever the name South Korea comes to mind, Seoul immediately comes to mind, many times associated with vibrant colors, fashion sense, and busy streets. However, Korea’s beauty is not confined to its capital city but extends further into other cities, such as Jeonju, which allows one to experience Korean heritage and culture. Located in the southwestern part of the country, Jeonju retains its historical sites, architecture, and delectable foods, each showing a unique beauty much different from Seoul.
The city that attracts the most tourists in Jeonju is Hanok Village, with over 700 traditional Korean houses, known as hanoks. Unlike Seoul, which is filled with modern skyscrapers, this village represents a respect for tradition: the curved roofs, the wood rendered with intricate patterns, and the old-style courtyards, have all been preserved to maintain traditional Korean architecture. The village's appeal does not come just from the structures but from how they fit within the modern lifestyle. These hanoks are filled with cafes, art galleries, and shops, making the area perfect for contemporary residence while retaining a traditional style. The Korea Tourism Organization claims that Jeonju Hanok Village symbolizes historical Korean culture, attracting tourists to explore the nation’s deep history (visitkorea).
Photo by L.A via Pinterest
Aside from its architecture, Jeonju is also celebrated for its food culture. Indeed, Jeonju is the birthplace of one of Korea's most famous dishes, the bibimbap. However, the food in the region is more than just about presenting delectable flavors. Only the freshest ingredients are picked to be used for the food. To experience Jeonju’s dishes, one should check out the traditional markets of this city, like Nambu Market, which is an experience for all five senses, overwhelming visitors with vivid colors, sizzling sounds, and the smell of spices. One source notes, "Koreans say, ‘eat once in Jeonju and you'll be spoiled for life,’" capturing the city’s culinary reputation (World-travelable)
Photo by Dully Sae via pinterest
One other key factor defining Jeonju's charm is its commitment to culture and arts. The famous Jeonju International Film Festival is held here, which gained immense popularity in recent years becoming a must-visit site for filmmakers and cinephiles from all over the world. The festival is a testimony that Jeonju's cultural landscape is not limited to traditions, showing that the city actively participates in modern movements as well (jeonjufest)
Photo by Jeonju International Film Festival
Works Cited
JEONJU Intl. Film Festival, https://jeonjufest.kr/. Accessed 23 October 2024.
“Jeonju food: 7 reasons why it's the best in Korea.” World Travel-Able, https://worldtravelable.com/trips/jeonju-food-the-best-in-korea/. Accessed 23 October 2024.
“Jeonju Hanok Village [Slow City] (전북 전주 한옥마을 [슬로시티]) : VISITKOREA.” Visit Korea, https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/whereToGo/locIntrdn/rgnContentsView.do?vcontsId=110848. Accessed 23 October 2024.
Photo Citations:
"Aesthetic Pink and Green Scenery of Jeonju Hanok Village." Pinterest, uploaded by user 'L.A.,' https://kr.pinterest.com/pin/55591376645471611/. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
"Jeonju Bibimbap." Pinterest, uploaded by user 'Dully Sae,' https://kr.pinterest.com/pin/186829084533144284/. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
"Jeonju F.F." Pinterest, uploaded by user 'June,' https://kr.pinterest.com/pin/730075789585333514/. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.