Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and Korean Folk Village

Suwon was one of four main regional government centers during the Joseon dynasty. Hwaseong Fortress, built to protect the city, was designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site on December 12, 1997 for its historical value. The fortress offers various performances daily as well as the Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival every fall. The walls stretch for 5,700 kilometers, with Paldalsan Mountain at the center. The fortress, constructed from 1794 to 1796, was built as a display of King Jeongjo’s filial piety towards his father and to build a new pioneer city with its own economic power.

Korean Folk Village introduces traditional culture from the late Joseon period to both local and international visitors through cultural classes experience, shaman faith, seasonal customs and others. It recreated the past through the restoration of houses from the Joseon dynasty. Performances including nongak (farmer’s music), martial arts on horseback, traditional wedding ceremony, and other special events are available by season. In particular, "Welcome to Joseon," an event held every May, takes visitors back to the past. In addition, a family-friendly theme park equipped with 15 exciting attractions is also available. Visitors can also try various Korean foods at the market street.