A Glimpse into Korean History: Visiting Yugi-bang House in Seosan, Filming Site of Mr. Sunshine

Image
If you're a fan of Korean historical dramas, especially the beautifully shot Mr. Sunshine , you might recognize the quiet, atmospheric hanok (traditional Korean house) that appeared in several poignant scenes. That house is Yugi-bang House (유기방 가옥), nestled in the peaceful town of Seosan, South Chungcheong Province. A House with Over 200 Years of History Built in the early 1800s, Yugi-bang House is a jogak hanok , meaning it's a smaller-sized traditional Korean home. It was the residence of a respected Confucian scholar, and its simple yet elegant architecture reflects the Joseon-era lifestyle and values. Its tiled roof, wooden beams, and stone foundation speak of Korean craftsmanship that has endured for generations. Unlike many restored hanok villages, this home hasn’t been overly modernized, which makes the atmosphere incredibly authentic. Why Mr. Sunshine Chose This Spot The creators of Mr. Sunshine were known for their attention to detail and atmosphere, ...

Korea’s Origin Myth: How a Bear Became a Woman

Have you ever heard of a bear who became a human? Long before Korea had kings or dynasties, there was a bear, a tiger… and a test of patience.

The Legend of Ungnyeo

In the earliest Korean myth, a divine being named Hwanung descended from the heavens to bring civilization to Earth. One day, a bear and a tiger came to him with a wish: “Make us human.”

Hwanung agreed — but under one condition. They had to spend 100 days in a dark cave, eating only garlic and mugwort.

Insert image of bear and tiger sitting at cave entrance

The tiger, impulsive and wild, gave up after a few days. But the bear endured the darkness and hunger.

On the 21st day, she emerged — no longer a beast, but a woman. Her name was Ungnyeo (웅녀), the first human mother in Korean mythology.

[Insert image of woman glowing in soft light, symbolic transformation]

The Mother of a Nation

Ungnyeo, now human, longed for companionship. Touched by her devotion, Hwanung took her as his wife. Their son was Dangun (단군), the legendary founder of Gojoseon, the first Korean kingdom (2333 BCE).

[Insert image of Ungnyeo holding baby Dangun, traditional-style painting]

This myth is more than a tale — it reflects values like perseverance, humility, and sacred origins that still shape Korean identity today.

Why This Myth Still Matters

  • It's Korea’s version of an origin story — like Adam and Eve in the West.
  • The cave and plants symbolize purification and rebirth.
  • Ungnyeo is celebrated as a national mother figure.

If you want to understand Korean culture deeply, start with Ungnyeo. She wasn’t just a bear — she was the beginning of a nation.

[Insert image of ancient Korean mountain landscape + Cheomseongdae observatory silhouette in background]

📌 Related Posts

🌏 Share this story with anyone interested in world myths, Korean history, or cultural roots. Follow for more ancient legends in modern storytelling.