Vivek Sharma, Seoul: Bukchon Hanok Village, a captivating Korean traditional village, is located in Seoul. The village takes its name from its position to the north of Cheonggye Stream, hence known as Bukchon, meaning “north village.” a traditional Korean house that breathes with the essence of the past.
Hanok, with its unique architectural design, represents a harmonious blend of natural elements such as earth, wood, and rock. The extensive use of these natural materials makes hanok an eco-friendly accommodation. Similarly, in India’s traditional village houses, we witness a deep connection with nature, where the construction materials often consist of clay, wood, and other natural resources.
One remarkable feature of hanok houses is the underground heating system called ondol. Ondol circulates warm air beneath the floors, keeping the rooms above comfortably heated. Similarly, in India, we find a heating system known as “MARU FLOOR,” which employs wooden floors to allow fresh air to circulate beneath and maintain cooler temperatures inside. Both ondol and MARU FLOOR reflect a shared understanding of utilizing natural resources to create comfortable living environments.
The kitchen holds a special place in hanok houses. It is the heart of the house, where families gather to cook and share meals. The ondol stove, integrated into the kitchen, plays a central role in providing warmth during meal preparations. This cultural aspect resonates with Indian traditions, where kitchens hold immense significance as the center of family life, nurturing connections and fostering togetherness.
Following the Korean War, which concluded in 1953, many hanok houses were unfortunately demolished. The urgent need for new infrastructure led to the introduction of Western-style buildings. However, it is astonishing to think that only 70 years ago, there were simple hanok houses standing. While not all hanok houses were destroyed during the war, the ones that remained were gradually replaced by tall apartment buildings due to concerns about unsanitary living conditions.
In Korean culture, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a hanok, a practice that is almost mandatory. This practice is also observed in Korean apartments, symbolizing a deep respect for cleanliness and tradition. Similarly, in India, it is common for people to remove their shoes before entering homes, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and maintaining a sacred space. Additionally, both cultures embrace the practice of sitting on the floor for meals, symbolizing a connection to the earth and an appreciation for simplicity.
India shares many cultural similarities with Korea in terms of traditional village houses. The removal of shoes before entering, sitting on the floor to eat meals, and even sleeping on the floor are common practices in Indian households. These cultural parallels highlight the universality of human values and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
In conclusion, Bukchon Hanok Village stands as a testament to Korea’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage. The cultural similarities between hanok traditional houses and India’s traditional village houses underscore the shared values of eco-friendliness, simplicity, and respect for nature. As we forge ahead into the future, embracing and learning from these cultural legacies will enable us to create a more sustainable and culturally diverse world.
