Historic Fortress in Unassumed City Near Seoul: A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring
Exploring Suwon: A Hidden Gem Less Than an Hour from Seoul
Only 30 kilometers south of Seoul, the vibrant city of Suwon often eludes the hurried traveller. Yet, this captivating city boasts all the reasons to charm those who visit it, making it an ideal detour from South Korea's bustling capital.
For history enthusiasts, Suwon offers a wealth of heritage attractions. The crowning jewel is the Hwaseong Fortress, a military architectural masterpiece built in the 18th century by King Jeongjo in honor of his deceased father. This UNESCO World Heritage site still encircles the city center, providing a picturesque six-kilometer walk dotted with monumental gates, watchtowers, and offering panoramic views of the city. Visitors can choose to take a leisurely stroll or opt for a tourist train to circumnavigate the fortress.
Suwon is also renowned for its distinctive culinary specialty, galbi, a savory Korean barbecue made from marinated and perfectly grilled beef short ribs. The city's historic center is lined with numerous specialty restaurants, many of them family-owned, where visitors can savor this dish in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Beyond its historical charm and delectable cuisine, Suwon combines modernity with tradition seamlessly. University students make up a large portion of the population, contributing to a youthful and lively vibe. Ingye-dong district is filled with trendy cafes, local boutiques, and art galleries, offering a stark contrast to the historic city center. Tech enthusiasts can also visit the Samsung Innovation Museum in the city, home to the global headquarters of the Samsung group.
Reaching Suwon from Seoul is convenient, taking around 30 to 45 minutes by train (lines 1 and Bundang of the metro, or express trains) or approximately an hour by car or taxi, depending on traffic.
If you're planning a trip to South Korea, Suwon is a must-visit destination, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. Don't miss its famed Hwaseong Fortress, delicious galbi, and lively atmosphere.
For further insights into South Korea's history, culture, and attractions, check out our articles on the oldest city in South Korea, the most beautiful national parks, the must-visit cities, and iconic K-drama filming locations.
References[1] "Suwon, the lesser-known city less than an hour from Seoul to discover." News text.[2] "Suwon, the capital of galbi, a culinary specialty not to be missed." News text.[3] Enrichment Data: Korean Folk Village, Suwon Nammun Market, K-Drama Filming Locations.[4] Enrichment Data: Traditional Dress (Hanbok).[5] Enrichment Data: Nighttime Views, Cafes and Restaurants, Suwon Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, Suwon Museum.
During your trip to South Korea, consider adding Suwon to your itinerary, a captivating city that combines history and modernity. In the city, you can find the in-flights of university students, giving it a lively atmosphere, and explore the trendy cafes, local boutiques, and art galleries in Ingye-dong district. Before or after visiting these lifestyle hotspots, take some time to travel to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Hwaseong Fortress, and indulge in the delicious galbi, Suwon's culinary specialty.
