KLM Huis 96.

The Hamle House Kortendijk 67, Gorinchem

Hamel House symbolises the special relationship shared between the Netherlands and South Korea. The Hamel House was reconstructed in Hendrick’s birthplace. The house brings the historic tale of Gorinchem’s naval hero to life visually. It isn’t only a museum; it’s also a place where the Dutch and Korean cultures merge. Hendrick Hamel (Gorinchem, 1630 - 1692) was a Dutch seafarer. In 1653 his ship, the ‘Sperwer’, became wrecked off the coast of the Korean island of Jeju. The survivors were not allowed to leave the country because the Korean king was afraid that information about Korea would get out to the rest of the world. Only after thirteen years, did Hendrick Hamel succeed in escaping, along with seven others.