Can you tell us more about Rakkojae Hanok Collection?
We originally started out as a hospitality brand that transformed traditional hanoks into multifaceted spaces that serve as hotels, cultural centers and event venues. Beyond accommodation, we curate and sell Korean antique furniture and artwork, fostering an appreciation for Korean tradition. We have also ventured into craft distillation with House of Heritage, introducing K-ORIGIN liquors, catering to a discerning clientele seeking authentic Korean experiences and craftsmanship.
What makes Andong a unique destination for travellers?
The region’s rich cultural traditions, and the famous UNESCO-listed Hahoe Folk Village, known to have the best-preserved Joseon architecture and Hanok homes, offer opportunities for immersive experiences that soothe the soul and rejuvenate the spirit. Whether exploring ancient temples, indulging in traditional cuisine known for its healthful ingredients, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, Andong embodies the perfect balance of wellness and cultural allure, making it a truly attractive destination for travelers seeking a holistic retreat.
Andong is also known for its traditional Korean cuisine, which includes specialties like Andong jjimdak (a savory braised chicken dish) and Andong soju Known for its smooth taste and distinct flavor profile, Andong soju is crafted using traditional methods passed down through generations. Made from locally grown rice and pure water sourced from Andong’s pristine surroundings, it reflects the region’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Tell us more about the concept of Rakkojae Hahoe Hanok Hotel.
Rakkojae Hahoe Hanok Hotel embodies a multi-decade-long journey for my father who has been building this wellness village. We believe in harnessing architecture and nature to restore harmony and enhance wellbeing. Our Hanok Villas blend traditional Korean architecture with luxurious accommodations, providing a serene and rejuvenating retreat. Our staff are trained to deliver 5-star service, ensuring our discerning guests experience authentic Korean hospitality without compromising on luxury.
Can you share more about the architectural design of Rakkojae Hahoe Hanok Hotel?
Andong offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty that inherently promotes wellbeing and relaxation. Nestled amidst picturesque mountains and blessed with the tranquil Nakdong River, Andong provides a serene backdrop for visitors seeking to unwind and reconnect with nature.
The architecture at Rakkojae Hahoe Hanok Hotel’s Giwa Main Complex is inspired by the palatial styles of the Joseon Dynasty, providing guests with a luxurious yet culturally immersive stay. Each Hanok Villa encapsulates the essence of traditional Korean architecture and its harmonious relationship with nature, designed to offer a spiritually enriching experience. We have huge respect for the natural world, and our architecture integrates earth, wood, and rock, and have designed spaces that blend seamlessly with their surroundings. Each room features hanji wallpaper, handmade from mulberry trees, allowing gentle light and air to permeate, enhancing a sense of tranquility and connection to nature.
Rakkojae Hahoe Giwa Main Complex draws inspiration from the grandeur of Korean palaces. Each of the five buildings—Buyongjeong, Gwanramjeong, Aeryeonjeong, Yeongyeongdang, and Nakseonjae—echoes the architectural splendor of Changdeokgung Palace. This meticulous homage to traditional palatial architecture not only reflects our dedication to cultural authenticity but also offers guests an immersive experience steeped in the heritage and elegance of Korea’s royal past. Each building is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of Korean artisans. Great care has been taken to showcase intricate woodwork, traditional roof tiles, and beautifully landscaped gardens transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse of Korean royalty lived during the Joseon dynasty, so they can gain a profound appreciation for Korea’s cultural values, aesthetics, and historical continuity.
What can guests staying at Rakkojae Hanok Hotel look forward to?
Rakkojae Hahoe Hanok Hotel offers a range of cultural activities that allow guests to fully engage with Korean traditions. Guests can enjoy wellness activities such as our jjimjilbang dry saunas, natural yellow mud barefoot walking path, and outdoor foot bath; experience wearing Hanbok (Korean traditional dress), and enjoy folk performances. Our Hanok Villas are an ideal sanctuary for relaxation and mindfulness. We plan to integrate spa treatments, healthy cuisine, and holistic wellness programs for guests staying with us.
Andong is a living museum, where history and tradition are brought to life in a serene and picturesque setting. We can also organize guided tours of the Hahoe Folk Village and nearby cultural sites, providing deeper insights into Korea’s rich history and heritage.
Michael has an outstanding cross-cultural perspective on international hospitality management. He attained his first degree at University at Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne in Switzerland, and subsequently completed his Master of Science in Hospitality Industry Studies from New York University. Michael then attained a Doctorate of Hotel and Tourism Management (D.HTM) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s School of Hotel and Tourism Management.
Before joining his father to manage Rakkojae, Michael worked at luxury hotels including The Ritz-Carlton and Thompson Hotels in New York City and was also a founding member of the Expedia office in South Korea and a part of the country leadership team.
About Rakkojae Hanok Collection
Rakkojae is the first hanok hotel to be listed in the inaugural Michelin Guide in Seoul in 2017. Founded by Dr Michael Ahn’s father, Young Hwan Ahn, the first Rakkojae Hotel started operations in 2003 in the Bukchon Hanok Village. Michael has taken over the helm since 2017 – where the senior Ahn has spent the last decade building an iconic wellness village in Andong. Having established the Rakkojae brand to be synonymous with Korea’s first and finest traditional hotel, a new property will open in Andong this September 2024 – Rakkojae Hahoe Hanok Hotel.
Rakkojae translates to “a house where one can truly appreciate the tradition of times past”. Designed to offer contemporary comforts for the traveller who desires to immerse in local culture, Rakkojae has carefully retained the Korean traditions when building each hotel while simultaneously infusing thoughtful touches to offer guests a luxury hotel stay experience.
Inspired by the “albergo diffuso” concept originating from Italy where a network of accommodations is spread out horizontally in historic villages through alleyways, Rakkojae Hanok Collection is on a mission to elevate the hanok stay experience. Together with his father, Michael is passionate about promoting hanok stays for wellbeing, while maintaining the cultural integrity and traditions of Hanok architecture. He wants to create a unified brand across different hanok properties- using a new ‘village inn’ concept of operations delivering a quality of service that is found in 5-star hotels.
With Rakkojae hotels located in different parts of the village (Both in Seoul’s Bukchon village and now in Andong), guests can experience an intimate, community-centric local lifestyle as they walk to their individual hanoks operated as guestrooms.
Rakkojae Hahoe Hanok Hotel
Giwa Main Complex: 20 Hanok Rooms & Suites (Official Opening : September 2024)
186-20, Jeonseo-ro, Pungcheon-myeon, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Choga Annex: 4 Hanok Rooms
51 Hahoegangbyun-gil, Poongchun-myun, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Rakkojae Seoul Bukchon
Rakkojae Seoul Main Hanok: 5 Hanok Rooms
218 Gahoe-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Bukchon Binkwan 5 Hanok Rooms
10 Bukchonro11ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
