Special City Suwon
Suwon,
Gyeonggi-do
The dynamic capital of Gyeonggi-do, just 30 km south of Seoul,
where UNESCO-listed fortress walls, sizzling chicken alleys and ultra-modern lifestyle malls lie side by side.
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
Built by King Jeongjo between 1794–1796, encircles the city with 5.74 km of stone walls, four grand gates and multiple watchtowers.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997, it features the royal Haenggung palace, daily traditional performances and panoramic views from its ramparts.
Just a 30-minute subway ride from Seoul, it offers immersive history, scenic walks and vibrant local markets at its base.
Paldalmun Gate
The main southern entrance of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, built in 1794 under King Jeongjo, featuring a two-storey wooden pavilion atop a wide arched passage and encircled by its signature crescent-shaped protection wall; designated Treasure No. 402.
Haenggung-dong
Nestled beside Suwon’s royal Haenggung palace, this charming neighborhood is defined by its cluster of restored hanok houses that now host artisan workshops, galleries and cozy cafés. Wander its narrow alleys to watch local potters, woodworkers and leather-craft masters at work, step into intimate artist studios showcasing contemporary and traditional Korean art, and even join a hands-on class—immersing yourself in Suwon’s living creative heritage within the embrace of centuries-old architecture.
Starfield Suwon
Opened January 2024 by Shinsegae, Starfield Suwon spans 331,000 m² over eight floors (B8–8F) with 60+ shops and 20+ cafés and restaurants. Highlights include the multi-level Starfield Library (floors 4–7), Vinyl LP Café, SMOB Indoor Sports Park, Concord Fitness Club and a rooftop Star Garden & Pet Park. Free admission and just a six-minute walk from Hwaseo Station (Line 1) make it Suwon’s ultimate all-in-one lifestyle destination.
Gwanggyo Lake Park
Suwon’s signature urban oasis, where two interlinked lakes are edged by winding boardwalks and cycling paths. Highlights include a striking cable-stayed bridge, LED-lit musical fountain shows at dusk, sunken gardens and lakeside art installations. Scattered cafés and pavilions invite leisurely breaks, while open lawns and fitness stations cater to joggers, families and photographers seeking both modern design and natural serenity.
Wang-Galbi
*Wang (왕) : Big, Thick*
*Galbi (갈비) : Ribs*
Suwon Wang Galbi is a famous Korean dish featuring thick, juicy beef short ribs marinated in a savory-sweet soy-based sauce, grilled to perfection. It originated in Suwon and is known for its large portion size and rich flavor.
Tong-Dak
*Tong-Dak (통닭) - Fried Chicken*
Suwon Tongdak is a crispy, whole fried chicken cooked in a traditional cauldron without batter. It's a nostalgic Korean dish from the 1970s, still popular today in Suwon's famous Tongdak Alley.
Mandu
*Mandu(만두) : Korean Dupling*
Suwon Mandu is a popular Korean dumpling dish known for its large size and juicy filling. Often steamed or pan-fried, it’s packed with seasoned meat and vegetables, offering a rich and savory taste. It's a beloved local snack in Suwon’s traditional markets.
Ji-dong Sundae
*Ji-dong(지동) : Names of neighborhood(Dong) in Suwon* *Sundae(순대) : Korean Blood Sausage* Jidong Sundae is a traditional Korean blood sausage dish from Suwon's Jidong Market. Made with a mix of glass noodles, blood, and vegetables, it's known for its chewy texture and rich flavor, especially popular in the market’s famous Sundae Alley.
Current
Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival
2024.10.04 ~ 2024.10.06
2024 Korean Heritage Media Art | Suwon Hwaseong Season 4
2024.09.28 ~ 2024.10.20
Permanent Experience Program
English 
한국어