Tourist restrictions in Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional neighborhood in Seoul, South Korea

South Korean authorities have announced stricter measures to protect a traditional historic district in downtown Seoul from crowds of tourists that have flooded its streets and caused friction with residents.

Restrictions for tourists in Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional neighborhood in Seoul, South Korea. Photo: Adbar/Wikipedia

Known for its picturesque and well-preserved traditional Korean houses, Bukchon Hanok Village is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Seoul, South Korea, attracting thousands of visitors every day.

But tourists far outnumber residents, and complaints about noise, trash and privacy issues have increased over the years.

Located in the Jongno district of downtown Seoul, Bukchon is close to other tourist attractions such as the ancient Jongmyo royal shrine and the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces.

In an attempt to calm tensions, the authorities will restrict the access of tourists to the popular village starting from October this year.

Strict bans on non-resident access will be daily from 5:00 p.m. to 10 a.m. Coaches carrying tourists will be restricted on several sections.

Three color-coded zones – red, orange and yellow – will also be designated to allow local authorities to control and monitor congestion.

Those who do not follow the rules will be liable to fines, officials say.

Signs have also been installed in four languages ​​warning tourists not to make noise and speak softly.

The area is home to around 6000 inhabitants, as well as inns, craft shops and cafes.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Traffic restrictions on the Giurgiu-Ruse Bridge

Starting from July 10, 2024, major repair works will be carried out at the Giurgiu-Ruse Friendship Bridge (between Bulgaria and Romania) on the Bulgarian section, which will lead to the restriction of road traffic on one of the lanes.

The Mont Blanc tunnel under renovation

The tunnel under Mont-Blanc will be closed from September 2 to December 16, 2024 for its first renovation work, which will target the tunnel vault.

Traffic on Valea Oltului, Romania, is closed during the day

For one month, between July 8 and August 9, 2024, traffic in the Olt Valley, between 06:00 and 20:00, will be stopped for the execution of the clearing works on the slope located in the protection zone of DN 7, on the sector between km 242+600 and km 250+000.

Italy's Via dell'Amore reopens after 12 years

The most romantic route in Cinque Terre, Italy, nicknamed Via dell'Amore (The Way of Love), reopens on July 27, 2024, after 12 years

Venice (Italy) limits tourist groups to 25 people and bans megaphones

Local authorities in Venice have limited tourist groups to 25 people and banned tour guides from using megaphones.

Biscuit Basin in Yellowstone, United States, closed after a hydrothermal explosion

Biscuit Basin in Yellowstone National Park, United States, has been closed after a hydrothermal explosion sent debris hundreds of meters into the air and damaged the surrounding area.