The Hanok Heritage House: Korea’s First Prix Versailles Winner Opens to the Public
- Jomanda Heng
- Sep 24
- 3 min read
A Portal Into Korean Tradition
Travel often feels repetitive, same hotels, same amenities, same Instagram photos. But The Hanok Heritage House in Yeongwol, Gangwon-do offers something rare: the chance to step into living history. Newly open to the public, this award-winning hanok retreat blends timeless Korean craftsmanship with modern comfort, marking a new era for cultural travel in Korea.
What Is a Hanok and Why the Hanok Heritage House Matters
A hanok is not just a building, it’s a philosophy of life. Built with natural wood, stone, and hanji paper, hanok houses emphasize balance with the seasons and harmony with the landscape. Curved tiled roofs, exposed beams, and heated ondol floors reflect a design ethos that has lasted over a thousand years.
The Hanok Heritage House stands out because it doesn’t freeze hanok architecture in time. Instead, it reinterprets tradition for the modern traveler, making it a living, breathing symbol of Korea’s heritage.
The Hanok Heritage House Wins Prix Versailles and UNESCO Recognition
In 2024, The Hanok Heritage House became the first Korean-designed hotel to win the Prix Versailles, UNESCO’s prestigious global architecture award. The prize honored the property’s ability to merge cultural heritage with modern sustainability and design innovation.
This recognition also positions the house as a landmark in world architecture, spotlighted by both UNESCO and the International Union of Architects (UIA). For Korea, it’s not just an accolade, it’s a cultural milestone.
Source: Hanok Heritage House
The Hanok Heritage House in Yeongwol: A Destination Beyond Seoul
Located in Yeongwol, Gangwon Province, the Hanok Heritage House offers more than a stay. The region is known for its rivers, mountain valleys, and clear night skies, making it an ideal backdrop for slow travel.
Here, guests can:
Stroll through traditional courtyards framed by wooden beams.
Join curated tea ceremonies and seasonal dining experiences.
Stay overnight in private villa accommodations designed with both authenticity and luxury in mind.
It’s a rare chance to experience Korean tradition away from the neon rush of Seoul.
Modern Comfort Meets Traditional Hanok Architecture
Inside, the Hanok Heritage House fuses hanok architecture with modern hospitality. Think:
Wide courtyards and serene pavilions crafted from locally sourced wood.
Ondol underfloor heating paired with modern climate control.
Traditional interiors upgraded with custom furniture, sleek bathrooms, and discreet technology.
This delicate balance ensures guests enjoy heritage without compromising on comfort.
Why the Hanok Heritage House Is Open to the Public
Unlike hanok museums or preserved villages, the Hanok Heritage House is designed for participation, not observation. Visitors are encouraged to experience hanok living, whether through immersive stays, day tours, or cultural programs.
By opening to the public, the house also fulfills a larger mission: keeping Korea’s traditional craftsmanship alive while contributing to the local economy of Yeongwol.
Awards and Cultural Significance of Hanok Heritage House
The Prix Versailles award, under UNESCO’s patronage, is just the beginning. The Hanok Heritage House is celebrated internationally as:
A sustainable model of architectural preservation.
A benchmark for future cultural tourism projects in Korea.
Proof that hanok architecture belongs on the global stage.
Its recognition by UNESCO and the International Union of Architects places it in the company of the world’s most celebrated architectural achievements.
Planning Your Visit to Hanok Heritage House
Where: Yeongwol, Gangwon Province, South Korea.
Why visit: To explore Korea’s first Prix Versailles award-winning hanok, blending heritage, design, and luxury.
Who it’s for: Architecture lovers, cultural travelers, couples seeking privacy, and anyone craving authentic “slow travel.”
Tip: Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as Donggang River stargazing, Yeongwol’s cultural villages, and scenic mountain hikes.
The Hanok Heritage House isn’t just another heritage site. With its UNESCO recognition, Prix Versailles win, and global architectural acclaim, it’s a living bridge between Korea’s past and future.
Whether you’re sipping tea in its pavilions, tracing the shadows of wooden beams at sunset, or simply breathing in the silence of the countryside, the Hanok Heritage House proves that heritage, when reimagined, can be every bit as inspiring as the future.
The Uncommon Breed
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