11 Jun 2009, Posted by Matt in Buddhist Temples, Festivals & Holidays, Seoul, UNESCO Sites, Video, 0 Comments

Bongwonsa Temple

In 889, Bongwonsa Temple was founded by the great master Doseon. The west Seoul temple is famous for its Yeongsanjae ceremony, an elaborate and beautiful performance that was recognized by UNESCO in 2009.

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12 Nov 2008, Posted by Matt in Festivals & Holidays, Gyeongsang, Historic Korea, Nature, 7 Comments

Andong’s Gorgeous Hahoe Village

Traditional-style homes like this one are preserved in Hahoe Maeul (하회마을), an historic clan village near the city of Andong in North Gyeongsang Province.

(A version of this text aired on KBS World Radio on November 1, 2008.)

As the Nakdong River winds its way through North Gyeongsang Province, nestled in one of its curves is a picturesque place called Hahoemaeul (하회마을), or Hahoe Village (pronounced: ha-hwae). Designated “Important Folklore Material No. 122” by the Korean government, Hahoe is where members of the Pungsan Ryu family have lived for many generations.

“Hahoe” means winding river, and the scenic combination of the river and Taebaek mountains mean the village is located in an auspicious location. Some say Hahoe is like a lotus floating on the water.

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