North Village Hillside

Welcome to the North Village Hillside, specifically the area known historically and geographically as Bukahyeon-dong. Having crossed over from the southern slopes, you will immediately perceive a distinct shift in the atmospheric…

As we pause halfway up the initial incline, take a moment to survey the dense commercial clustering that defines this stretch of Bukahyeon-dong. This specific arrangement of shops is a textbook example of organic urban commercial…

Continuing our ascent, we must focus our attention on the human element that truly animates this steep terrain. Specifically, observe the elderly residents who populate the edges of the alleyways, seated on a variety of…

We now descend slightly to enter the bustling perimeter of Ahyeon Market, the undeniable culinary and commercial heart of the district. Unlike the grand, tourist-heavy markets of central Seoul, Ahyeon Market is a hyper-local,…

To truly understand the culture of the hillside, we must examine a specific culinary establishment nestled near the market: the Sotdwaejib. The name translates roughly to 'Cauldron Pig House,' indicating its specialty of cooking…

As our strenuous walk through the North Village Hillside comes to an end, take a moment to regulate your breathing and look back down the steep gradient we have just conquered. The 'Oreumakgil,' the uphill road of Bukahyeon-dong,…