Hanok is the Korean word for a traditional Korean house, which can serve as a Chuseok family gathering place.
A hanok is characterized by features developed for Korea’s climate and living patterns, including timber construction, tiled or thatched roofs, courtyards, and the ondol underfloor-heating system. Historic houses may contain distinct spaces for different household activities.
During Chuseok, families may gather in a hanok for meals, greetings, ceremonies, or photographs, especially when the house is connected with a family hometown. Most Chuseok gatherings, however, take place in contemporary homes rather than traditional houses.
Hanok means a type of Korean architecture, while hanbok means traditional Korean clothing. Their similar spellings make them easy to confuse, but they refer to entirely different things.