Exhibition looks into revolution of hanok
By Jean Oh
Publisher:The Korea Herald - Publication Date: 13-11-2007

Hanok, once considered a dead form of architecture, has been experiencing a recent revival in Seoul. And the National Trust of Korea invites Seoulites to take a close look at the contemporary revolution of these traditional Korean residences through their First Hanok Exhibition.
The exhibition kicks off Nov 14 at the exhibition hall of Insa Hakgojae and run through Nov 19 before going on tour from Nov 21 to Dec 14 at Seoul National University and Korea University.

Photos, writings and images of 14 hanok, selected by the organisation committee for excellence in renovation and structure, will be on display. Among the selected hanok are former president Yun Po-sun's residence, named National Cultural Property No 438, and the US ambassador's residence, also known as Habib House.

In addition, scheduled visits to hanok, from the Habib House to the Junnam Naju Dorae Village, are also available for those who want to see the real deal. And a scheduled seminar with Royal Asiatic Society Korea Branch vice president and hanok dweller Peter Bartholomew and fellow hanok owner Choi Mi-Kyung, representative of eight steps, will give people a chance to hear about what living in a hanok is like. The National Trust of Korea hopes that this exhibition will help sustain contemporary living in hanok, push for reforms of hanok-related laws and promote the development of hanok as a form of architecture. Furthermore, this event actively supports the growth and development of "Hanok Bank," an organisation that collects data on hanok.

Most importantly, by showing Seoulites how hanok remains a key part of modern Korean society, the Trust believes that their visitors will "discover ways to integrate elements of hanok into contemporary living".

Indeed, these new hanok are anything but outdated. Washing machines, showers and refrigerators are just a few of the modern appliances that are now a part of the contemporary hanok. Thanks to the creative minds of architects like Hwang Doo-jin, these renovated buildings have found their place in the 21st century. And that merits attention.

Insa Hakgojae is located near Anguk Subway Station, Line 3, Exit 6. For more information call (02) 739-4937 or visit www.nationaltrust.or.kr/hanok