A Quiet Escape into Korea’s Living History
Sometimes while traveling, we seek out places untouched by crowds—where tradition whispers through the trees and time seems to slow down.
Tucked away in the peaceful An-gang plains of Gyeongju, Yangdong Village is just such a place.
With its beautifully preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses) and timeless scenery, the village feels like a living museum.
And nestled quietly on a hill to the east lies Anlakjeong Pavilion, a serene structure whose name means “Pavilion of Peace and Comfort.”
Visiting here offers a rare glimpse into the refined and scholarly lifestyle of the Joseon dynasty.
Anlakjeong’s Structure and Cultural Significance
Anlakjeong is believed to have been built in 1776, during the 52nd year of King Yeongjo’s reign.
It stands at the entrance of the village on a gentle slope, offering a view over the tranquil landscape.
Yangdong Village itself is home to the descendants of two noble families—the Son clan of Wolseong and the Yi clan of Yeoju—and Anlakjeong remains one of its most notable heritage buildings.
The pavilion follows a “ใ
ก”-shaped floor plan, with five rooms across the front and two rooms deep.
The central three sections form a spacious open hall (daecheongmaru), flanked by rooms on either side.
A wooden porch stretches across the front, offering a peaceful space to enjoy nature.
Its roof features the classic gabled “matbae” style, which from the side resembles the Korean character for “person” (ไบบ).
This simple yet elegant form harmonizes beautifully with the natural surroundings and symbolizes balance and humility.
Two signboards hang on the building: “Anlakjeong” in the front, and “Seongsanjae” in the back—suggesting that the structure served both as a residence and a place for learning or scholarly gatherings.
Unlike more ornate palaces or temples, Anlakjeong is valued for its modest, minimalist aesthetic, a reflection of the Confucian ideals cherished during the Joseon era.
๐ฟ Conclusion: A Hidden Gem Worth Visiting in Gyeongju
Anlakjeong is more than just a historical building—it's a peaceful window into Korea’s cultural soul.
In spring, it’s surrounded by fresh greenery; in autumn, it glows with the calm beauty of falling leaves.
No matter the season, its stillness offers travelers a chance to breathe and reconnect.
If you're planning a trip to Gyeongju, don’t stop at the famous temples like Bulguksa or Seokguram.
Take a step further and explore Yangdong Village—especially the quiet charm of Anlakjeong Pavilion.
It’s a perfect place for those seeking something beyond the typical tourist spots—a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.
This work uses content from "Anlakjeong Pavilion in Yangdong Village, Gyeongju", originally created in 2016 by the Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea and released under the KOGL Type 1 (Open Government License).
The original material is freely available for download from the Cultural Heritage Administration and the Public Data Portal (www.heritage.go.kr).
