Huinnyeoul Culture Village in Busan: must-see attractions!
On Yeongdo Island sits the Huinnyeoul Culture Village: an atypical place, both beautiful, historic and cultural, which held great significance in the early 1950s...
On Yeongdo Island sits the Huinnyeoul Culture Village: an atypical place, both beautiful, historic and cultural, which held great significance in the early 1950s… Join us as we explore the history of this coastal village and its iconic attractions!
Huinnyeoul Culture Village: its history
During the Korean War (1950-1953), many citizens fleeing the conflict took refuge in this small coastal village, perched on cliffs... After the war, Huinnyeoul Culture Village, then overcrowded, transformed into a shantytown and was gradually abandoned by subsequent generations, leaving behind an aging village…
Thanks to an urban renewal campaign conducted in the 2010s, the village experienced a second rebirth. Like the Gamcheon cultural village, many abandoned houses were transformed into artistic spaces, turning this once-neglected village into an essential cultural destination!
Strolling through the heart of Huinnyeoul: things to see and do
There are two ways to explore Huinnyeoul: through the upper village (where historic houses are located) and along the waterfront, following the Jeoryeong coastal promenade (situated at the bottom of the village).
The Jeoryeong Coastal Promenade
The Jeoryeong promenade stretches 3 km along the coastline, offering stunning views of the East Sea (Sea of Japan). The end of the walk opens onto the Huinyeoul Coastal Tunnel – a tunnel created in 2018 for elderly villagers, so they no longer have to climb steep stairs to reach the promenade.
This tunnel is not merely an alternative route, but also an artistic space, where light displays are projected into the cave (from 09:00 to 23:00).
Huinnyeoul's old houses
The old houses are located at the top of the village, on the hillside. While some are still inhabited by locals, most house small art galleries, craft shops, cafés and restaurants…
A chance to enjoy a bowl of ramyeon, facing the sea – a Korean noodle dish, inspired by Japanese ramen! While Huinnyeoul Culture Village has several dining options, the restaurant The Aether Cafe is among the most popular, as it offers a superb panoramic view from its rooftop.
The National Maritime Museum
The village also has its own maritime museum. Suited for young children, the venue promises an enjoyable visit for all family members. Spread over four floors, the museum displays beautiful collections of maritime objects, photographs, replica ships, as well as a play area and a rooftop terrace.
Yeongdo Haneul Observatory
Renowned for offering the finest panoramic view of the entire village, the observatory allows visitors, on clear days, to distinguish distant islands, including Geojedo Island. It is a romantic spot much favored by Korean couples, who come to admire the sunset. The observatory features a skywalk – a glass walkway that overlooks the sea!
Exhibitions and the annual art festival
Since 2015, Huinnyeoul Culture Village has hosted the Street Art Festival every year. Organized in partnership with the city of Busan, the event features exhibitions, performances and creative workshops. It is also an opportunity to watch shows and concerts by local artists.
Photographing the open-air museum
Huinnyeoul Culture Village is a true open-air museum; made of murals, mosaics and street art works. Trompe-l'œil staircases, painted flower beds, origami birds: this small coastal town is an opportunity to capture beautiful, unique and playful shots!
Sometimes you may notice Koreans lingering around buildings without specific artwork… In that case, know that they are likely photographing a iconic K-Movie filming location (Korean movies)!
How to reach Huinnyeoul Culture Village? To reach Yeongdo Island, first take the train towards Nampo-dong (Line 1, Nampo Station stop). Once you arrive, you will need to take a bus (6, 7, 9, 71 or 82) towards Huinnyeoul Culture Village stop (흰여울문화마을). |
What to do near Huinnyeoul village?
Taejongdae Park and Yeongdo Lighthouse
South of Yeongdo-gu Island (and the cultural village), venture to discover Taejongdae Park. This natural gem is a vast verdant expanse, dotted with scenic trails, cliffs and panoramic views.
It is also a very important cultural site in Busan, where the Yeongdo Lighthouse stands. Inside? The site hosts a maritime museum!
Jagalchi Market
During your visit, also stop by Busan's Jagalchi Market (the largest fish market in the country). You may witness an octopus filleting demonstration…
Frequently asked questions
Access to the streets and open-air museum of Huinnyeoul Culture Village is free. Certain specific attractions like the National Maritime Museum may require an entrance fee. Check on-site for current rates.
From central Busan, take Metro Line 1 to Nampo Station. From there, take one of the following buses: 6, 7, 9, 71 or 82, and get off at Huinnyeoul Culture Village stop (흰여울문화마을).
The coastal tunnel (Huinyeoul Coastal Tunnel), which features artistic light displays, is open from 09:00 to 23:00. It was created in 2018 to facilitate access to the Jeoryeong coastal promenade, particularly for elderly villagers.
Since 2015, the Huinnyeoul Culture Village Street Art Festival has been held every year in partnership with the city of Busan. It features exhibitions, artistic performances, creative workshops and concerts by local artists. Exact dates vary each year.
Yes, Yeongdo Island offers several sites to combine with Huinnyeoul Culture Village. South of the island, Taejongdae Park features natural trails, spectacular cliffs and a historic lighthouse housing a maritime museum. Nearby, Jagalchi Market, the largest fish market in South Korea, is also a must-see in Busan.
