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At a Glance: Explore the artistic legacy of Chang Ucchin at his historic home, perfect for a rainy day visit in Yongin.
Rainy days can sometimes put a damper on travel plans, but visiting the Old House of Chang Ucchin (장욱진고택) in Yongin offers a cozy retreat filled with art and history. This place is particularly suited for those who appreciate art or are curious about Korean culture. You can explore the unique blend of traditional and Western architectural styles while enjoying the tranquility that comes with fewer crowds during bad weather.
What is Old House of Chang Ucchin (장욱진고택) exactly?
The Old House of Chang Ucchin was once home to the renowned artist Chang Ucchin, one of Korea’s first practitioners of Western-style painting. He lived here from 1986 until his death, creating numerous artworks that captured various aspects of Korean life. The house itself was designated as a National Cultural Heritage site in 2008 and features both a traditional hanok building and a later Western-style annex inspired by his 1953 painting “Scene with a Car.”
The main structure showcases classic elements like red brick walls and a black roof, with an entrance flanked by windows reminiscent of his art. Inside, you can find an anchae (inner room) and sarangchang (guestroom/study), providing insight into traditional Korean living spaces. You might feel differently though.
Is it worth the trip?
This spot is definitely worth your time, especially if you want something to do indoors on a rainy day. The artistic atmosphere feels inviting, and wandering through the house allows for an intimate connection with Chang’s life and work. You’ll likely spend around an hour or so here exploring the rooms and soaking up the ambiance.
One thing that surprised me was how well-preserved everything is; it gives you a genuine feel for what life must have been like when Chang was creating his masterpieces. While there isn’t much interactive content compared to larger museums, there’s plenty to appreciate visually. Just be aware that without guided tours available, you’ll be doing most exploration on your own.
How to plan your visit?
The Old House of Chang Ucchin operates from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, which fits perfectly into most travel itineraries. If you’re coming from Seoul, take Line 1 to Suwon Station and transfer to Bus 37 or Bus 7-1 towards Giheung-gu; it takes about an hour from there. For those driving, it’s just off Mabuk-ro in Yongin-si—parking may be limited but generally available nearby.
Also worth mentioning: don’t forget to check out the annex building where there’s now a traditional tea house along with some gift shops selling local crafts. It’s a great way to support local artisans while treating yourself to some tea after your tour.
