Global Economic Times

Bonghwa's 500-Year-Old Oigeochon Village Transforms into a Traditional Tourism Gem A Harmony of Cultural Heritage, Natural Beauty, and Warm Hospitality: KO YONG-CHUL Reporter / Updated : 2025-04-23 10:44:05

Bonghwa-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea – Oigeochon Village, nestled in Geochon 1 and 3-ri, Bonghwa-eup, is poised to become an enchanting tourist destination through a traditional village tourism development project. Bonghwa County is investing a total project cost of 4.41 billion KRW, a key pledge of the 6th local government administration, to revitalize the village's traditional ambiance.

Oigeochon Village boasts a rich history and profound cultural significance. Since the early to mid-Joseon Dynasty, the Gwangsan Kim and Wonju Byun clans have formed a collective settlement, preserving traditional customs and folkways for over 500 years. The village is dotted with cultural heritage sites that bear the marks of time. These include the Important Folk Cultural Heritage No. 170, Ssangbyeokdang Pavilion, and Gyeongsangbuk-do Cultural Heritage Material No. 605, Sueondang Manor, along with numerous non-designated cultural properties such as Bancheonrisa Temple and Guyangseowon Confucian Academy, rendering it a vital site for historical education. Notably, the well-preserved traditional Joseon Dynasty architectural techniques enhance its architectural value.

The current tourism development project aims to preserve Oigeochon Village's historical and cultural value while providing visitors with a comfortable and picturesque environment. Key aspects of the project include:

Traditional Stone Wall Construction: To further enhance the village's serene atmosphere, 1.6 km of traditional stone and earth walls will be newly constructed. The natural texture of the walls is expected to harmonize with the village landscape, amplifying its traditional beauty.
Hwangto (Ocher) Alley Paving: For the convenience of residents and to offer visitors a pleasant walking environment, 2 km of village alleys will be paved with ocher. The ocher color will blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural scenery, providing a soft, earth-like texture underfoot.
Streetlight Improvement: Streetlights will be upgraded to ensure safety and create a beautiful nightscape. Traditional-style lanterns will subtly illuminate the village's charm even after dark.
Korean Traditional Park Creation: A Korean traditional park will be established as a communal space for residents and visitors to relax and experience traditional culture. The park will feature traditional pavilions and landscaping, with various traditional cultural experience programs planned to enhance enjoyment.
Furthermore, Bonghwa County is collaborating with the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) to undertake a project to relocate overhead power lines and utility poles underground, improving the village's aesthetics. With a total investment of 882 million KRW, burying these lines will create a cleaner and more organized village appearance.

A representative from Bonghwa County stated, "Through this Oigeochon Traditional Village Tourism Development Project, we aim to establish a distinctive traditional village tourism belt by connecting it with the already developed Baraemi, Daksil, Hwangjeon, and Changma villages. We will also actively strive to attract tourists and revitalize the local economy by developing diverse tourism programs in conjunction with other regional attractions such as the tourist train and Santa Village."

Bonghwa's Oigeochon Village: Unmissable and Alluring Tourist Highlights

Oigeochon Village, a captivating destination where ancient history, stunning nature, and warmhearted hospitality converge, is anticipated to draw even more visitors through this tourism development initiative.

A Living Site for Historical Education: With 500 years of history, Oigeochon Village offers a precious glimpse into the structure and lifestyle of Joseon Dynasty aristocratic residences. Exploring the old houses like Ssangbyeokdang and Sueondang provides a vivid experience of the architectural styles and daily life of that era, making it an excellent educational site for students.
Healing Amidst Beautiful Nature: Oigeochon Village exudes a peaceful and cozy ambiance, harmonizing with the surrounding picturesque natural scenery. Visitors can enjoy leisurely moments in the newly created traditional park or stroll along the ocher-paved alleys, fully appreciating the beauty of nature.
Diverse Cultural Experience Opportunities: The traditional park will host various traditional cultural experience programs. Opportunities to engage in traditional games and craft activities will allow visitors to directly experience and enjoy Korean traditional culture.
Enriching Travel Through Connections with Nearby Attractions: Bonghwa County boasts numerous other charming tourist destinations beyond Oigeochon Village. Visitors can enjoy a richer and more diverse trip by linking their visit with the beautiful natural landscapes of Taebaeksan National Park, the refreshing Santa Village, and other traditional villages with historic old houses. The Jungang Line tourist train offers a convenient and special travel experience.
By December 2016, Bonghwa's newly revitalized Oigeochon Village is expected to become a prominent tourist attraction in Bonghwa-gun, offering a unique experience where history, culture, and nature seamlessly blend.