Today, I’m introducing the White Western-Style House, which recently opened as a cultural complex in Jeonju Hanok Village. Previously, it served as the official residence of the Governor of North Jeolla Province and is commonly known as “Hayang (White) House.”

Since its reopening as a cultural space, the White Western-Style House in Jeonju Hanok Village has become one of the top spots to visit.

Located across from the Gyeonggijeon Shrine wall, the White Western-Style House served four governors from 1995 to 2022 and has now been renovated and reopened as a cultural complex.

“The White Western-Style House has been transformed into a cultural complex in Jeonju Hanok Village!”

The ground floor serves as an exhibition space for young artists active in the North Jeolla region, while the second floor includes living quarters and the governor’s office.
Let’s explore the White Western-Style House, a cultural complex in Jeonju Hanok Village.

From the entrance of the White Western-Style House, the garden is the first sight that catches the eye.

Operating hours : 10:00 – 18:00.
(Closed on Mondays) / Free admission.

From the garden, the building, constructed 53 years ago, impresses visitors with its unexpectedly sophisticated and stylish look.

At the entrance, a signboard provides detailed information about the White Western-Style House.

The first floor hosts an exhibition that highlights the achievements of 11 people who have made significant contributions to the cultural arts and tourism industry, recognized by the Jeonbuk Culture & Tourism Foundation.

The first floor also serves as an exhibition space for local young artists.

The exhibition space features crafts and photographs from eight local young artists.

After exploring the first floor, we head up to the second floor, which is considered the most charming part of the White Western-Style House.
The central living room on the second floor is used for gatherings and tea conversations.

Next to the elegant living room, a mother-of-pearl cabinet and table set an atmospheric tone.
The sofas look very comfortable too!

The small room on the second floor serves as the office of the Governor of North Jeolla Province, where you can sit and take a commemorative photo.

The walls of the office display the history of the elected governors and the province of North Jeolla.

The library consists of books recommended by celebrities and those donated by residents of North Jeolla, reflecting the theme ‘meeting and sharing through books.’
Visitors are welcome to read or browse the books here.

The second floor features a terrace that allows you to step outside, where you can view Gyeonggijeon Shrine’s street and its interior.

The terrace, equipped with tables and chairs, offers a relaxing spot to enjoy the surrounding views.

From the terrace, you can overlook the garden plants in the yard and the Hanok Village.
The view from the terrace in front of the second-floor living room includes the yard, garden, Gyeonggijeon Shrine, and Hanok Village, with distant views of the scenic Chimeong Mountain.

Artworks installed in the yard are also eye-catching.
One particular piece, ‘Chicken (Puppet Mask)’ by artist Shim Jae-kyun, brings a smile to your face and adds a touch of warmth.

Originally built in 1971 and transformed into a cultural complex 54 years later, the official residence of the Governor of North Jeolla has returned to the public as the White Western-Style House. This space, blending historical significance with modern sensibility, is expected to be well-loved.
If you have the chance to visit Jeonju Hanok Village, I highly recommend visiting the White Western-Style House for a unique experience. I’m wrapping up this post with that suggestion.

📍 The White Western-Style House   81-22 Pungnam-dong 3(sam)-ga, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do