Namsangol Hanok Village incorporates modern artifacts inspired by Korean traditional themes

The exhibition “Hang in Hanok” at Namsangol Hanok Village shows how the traditional Korean village incorporates contemporary works of art that its artifacts have inspired.

The project, co-organized by Namsangol Hanok Village and the Seoul Metropolitan Government, consists of four Korean traditional themes: hanbok (traditional Korean garments), scrolls, lamps and scenery. 

The modern artifacts based on these themes were designed by four designers and two art institutes.

Installations consisting of hanbok skirts in 12 colors are displayed in the front yard. Lee Sung-ju, a modern hanbok designer, drew inspiration from the colors that could be seen everywhere at the hanok village, according to the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

A large eye-shaped lamp is among the works on display as well. It was designed by three artists who wondered how visitors would feel if they were the ones being observed by the hanok village and not the other way around. 

Namsangol Hanok Village opened in 1998 at the foot of Namsan’s north side in central Seoul. The village has five restored traditional Korean houses, a pavilion and a traditional garden. 

The exhibition runs until Jan. 5. For more information, visit www.hanokmaeul.or.kr.

By Park Yuna (yunapark@heraldcorp.com)