Overtourism: Tourist curfew to be enforced in Seoul’s historic Bukchon Hanok Village
The historic village, which is popular with travelers because of its quaint Korean houses, is planning to impose a tourist curfew to restrict access to certain areas.
A tourist curfew will be enforced in Seoul’s historic Bukchon Hanok village. Credit: Canva
soulis attractive Bukchon Hanok VillageA historic neighborhood known for its traditional Korean houses is set to enforce a tourist curfew to protect its cultural heritage. The move aims to reduce the negative effects of excessive tourism, such as noise pollution, overcrowding and damage to fragile hanok structures. The area reportedly attracted around 6 million visitors in 2023, while its resident population stood at around 6,100.
According to reports, the curfew, which is scheduled for testing in November and could be officially introduced in March 2025, will limit tourist access to specific areas of Bukchon from 5 pm to 10 am, costing 100,000 won. A fine of up to ($72) will be imposed. imposed on violators. By restricting night visits, authorities hope to maintain the peace of the neighborhood and ensure the well-being of its residents.
Bukchon Hanok Village, with its winding streets and traditional houses, offers a glimpse Koreapast of. However, the increase in tourism has led to concerns about the preservation of its unique character. According to Reuters, citing the Jongno district office, many residents have decided to leave the village, causing a 27.6% decline in the village’s population over the past 10 years.
The proposed curfew is one of several measures being considered to balance the needs of tourism and heritage conservation. However, residents of the area are not satisfied. Residents have cited loopholes such as exemptions for overnight guests. They also blame the corporate-run Enoch Stay for disrupting their lives. Since 2020, the easing of restrictions has led to an increase in such residences, from 10 in 2010 to 116 in October 2024.
Also read: North Korea will reopen its doors to travelers this December
As the world increasingly recognizes the importance of cultural heritage, many historical sites are implementing measures to protect their heritage. It remains to be seen whether the proposed curfew of Bukchon Hanok Village will help preserve this cultural property or create more trouble for both residents and tourists.
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