When people talk about “the most traditional city in South Korea,” the name Andong (안동) often comes up. Known for its cultural heritage, traditional Hahoe Folk Village, delicious food, and well-preserved history, Andong is a must-visit for travelers who want to experience a side of Korea beyond Seoul and Busan.
The name “Andong” (안동) means “peaceful east.” It has long been associated with scholars and Confucian values. Interestingly, some people ask online: “My name is Andong—what is the ethnicity?”
If someone’s name is Andong outside Korea, it might not be directly related to the Korean city, but in Korea, the name carries cultural significance.
Where is Andong? (Andong South Korea Map)
Andong is located in North Gyeongsang Province (Gyeongsangbuk-do) in the southeastern part of South Korea.
If you look at an Andong map, you’ll see it surrounded by mountains and rivers, which is why it became a cultural hub for Confucian scholars during the Joseon Dynasty.
Getting to Andong: Seoul to Andong Journey
Many travelers wonder: How far is Andong from Seoul? The distance is about 200 km. By train or express bus, it takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
You can take a bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal or a KTX train from Seoul Station to Andong Station.
Getting to Andong: Seoul to Andong Journey
Many travelers wonder: How far is Andong from Seoul? The distance is about 200 km. By train or express bus, it takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
You can take a bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal or a KTX train from Seoul Station to Andong Station.
What is Andong Famous For?
Andong Hahoe Folk Village – a UNESCO World Heritage Site where traditional hanok houses are preserved.
Andong Mask Dance Festival – a lively annual event celebrating Korea’s mask dance traditions.
Andong Jjimdak (안동찜닭) – a spicy braised chicken dish that originated here and became a national favorite.
Andong Food Culture: Must-Try Dishes
Andong Jjimdak: This is Andong’s most famous culinary export – a delicious braised chicken dish with vegetables, sweet potato noodles, and a savory-sweet soy-based sauce. The dish originated here in the 1980s and has since become popular throughout Korea. Every restaurant in Andong claims to serve the “original” version!
Heotjesabap: A traditional mixed rice dish that reflects Andong’s aristocratic food culture, featuring various side dishes and high-quality ingredients prepared with centuries-old techniques.
Andong Soju: Try Korea’s traditional soju, which is much stronger and more refined than the mass-produced versions you’ll find elsewhere. Andong’s soju maintains traditional distilling methods passed down through generations.
Sikhye: Andong’s version of this traditional sweet rice drink is particularly famous and makes for a perfect dessert or afternoon refreshment.
Andong South Korea History
Andong played an important role in Korean history as a center of Confucian learning. Many of Korea’s scholars came from this area, and today, Confucian academies called seowon still stand as historical treasures.
The Dosan Seowon Confucian Academy, built by the great scholar Yi Hwang (Toegye), is one of the highlights.