FROM the EYES of DR AJAY KUMAR OJHA: HANOK, TRADITIONAL KOREAN HOUSES

FROM the EYES of DR AJAY KUMAR OJHA:

 HANOK, TRADITIONAL KOREAN HOUSES

(All the images are subject to IPR)

Koreans have developed unique architectural techniques to build housing that is properly adapted to the surrounding natural environment, providing dwellers with better protection. 

Image (C) Dr Ajay Kumar Ojha

 Traditional Korean houses are called Hanok. A distinctive feature of the Hanok is an underfloor heating system called ondol.

Image (C) Dr Ajay Kumar Ojha

Another important element of the traditional Korean house is the board-floored room (maru) located at the centre and used for multiple purposes.

Image (C) Dr Ajay Kumar Ojha

 The smart system combining ondol and maru makes the traditional Korean house a comfortable living  space for its residents not only in harsh winter but also in scorching summer.

Image (C) Dr Ajay Kumar Ojha

The roof is typically covered with either ceramic tiles or thatching.Most of the roof tiles are dark gray.

Image (C) Dr Ajay Kumar Ojha

 Traditional Korean houses are generally wooden structure but they can survive as long as other buildings made with other materials if properly taken care of. 

Image (C) Dr Ajay Kumar Ojha

 As an ideal location for their house, Korean people preferred a site protected by hills or mountains on its  three sides.

Image (C) Dr Ajay Kumar Ojha

 Plus with a stream or river passing in front, thus providing easy access to water.

Image (C) Dr Ajay Kumar Ojha

Modern apartments in Korea are almost without exception furbished with a heating system inspired by the age-old ondol system.