Hi Earthlings !
I’m not a die-hard K-Drama or K-pop fan, but I’ve watched a few of the big shows and listened to some of the music (even though I have no clue what they’re saying). As a traveler, though, I’m all about exploring the sights, culture, beauty, and everyday life—not in some curated way, but as a total DIY traveler.
If you’re a K-drama fan, Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon, South Korea, is a must-see! Getting there is super easy—just hop on a train to Suwon, and once you step out of AK Plaza (near Novotel), catch any of the buses like 66, 66-4, or 1007, and they’ll drop you near the fortress. From there, it’s a short walk to explore. For landmarks, check out my vlog around the 2:00 mark—I show the church and pedestrian walkway that’ll lead you right to the Paldalmun grounds. Watch the video below for the full rundown!
Hwaseong Fortress : A brief background
What's Inside
Hwaseong Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site but it is not only a historical gem but also a filming location for several popular K-dramas, like My Love from the Star and Extraordinary Attorney Woo.
My Love from the Star fans will recognize the fortress and its iconic gates, which were featured in memorable scenes from the show, adding a cinematic vibe to this historical treasure. Walking through these spots truly feels like stepping into a K-drama set, bringing your favorite moments to life.
If you need a map to navigate the fortress, just swing by the tourist info booth on the right side of the gate and archway—they’ve got free ones! Oh, and fun fact: the wall stretches about 5.79 kilometers, so it’s the perfect way to get those steps in!
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Hwaseong Fortress became a UNESCO World Heritage spot in 1997 for its seriously impressive architecture and history. Built by King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty in the late 18th century, it’s a major flex in military and cultural heritage. The fortress’s huge stone walls stretch almost 6 kilometers and offer epic views of Suwon. Every nook and cranny, from the grand Paldalmun Gate to the cool watchtowers, shows off the genius and craftsmanship of the Joseon era.
A Blend of History and K-Drama Magic
Exploring the Nearby Haenggungdong Village
Next to the fortress is Haenggungdong Village, a charming area filled with traditional hanok houses, cafes, and vibrant street art. This village also serves as a filming location for other dramas, such as Twenty-Five, Twenty-Oneand Our Beloved Summer. The Haenggungdong Mural Village is particularly popular, with its brightly colored murals lining the alleyways, creating an artistic atmosphere perfect for photos and leisurely strolls.
Cozy Cafes and Hanok Houses
First things first: it was super hot when we went, so we missed out on some cool spots. But the area around the fortress is a goldmine of cozy cafes and charming tea houses!
After a day of exploring the historical Hwaseong Fortress and wandering through the picturesque Haenggungdong Village, we only got to pass by House Plan B and Booter Cafe, but I was totally mesmerized by their exteriors!
House Plan B caught my eye with its minimalist, rustic charm and warm, inviting vibes. It looked like the perfect cozy spot for a cup of coffee. Meanwhile, Booter Cafe was flaunting a quirky, retro exterior with colorful, mismatched furniture and vintage knick-knacks that made me wish I could have popped in for a latte and some dessert. Both of these spots seemed like ideal hangouts to unwind and soak in the local charm after a day of sightseeing!
If you’re down for something totally offbeat, check out Café Ddong Café. It’s got a poop-themed décor (yep, you read that right!). It sounds kinda wild, but it’s a blast and makes for some quirky Insta pics. For a more chill vibe, Terarosa Coffee on Hwaseong Café Street is your go-to. They serve up delicious, locally roasted coffee in a super peaceful setting. Plus, many of these spots have made their way into K-dramas, so you’ll be soaking up a bit of that pop culture magic too.
Why You Should Visit
Whether you’re rolling with friends, family, or flying solo, Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon has something for everyone. It’s an easy day trip from Seoul—just hop on a train to Suwon and get ready to explore. There’s so much to do, you could easily spend a full day soaking it all in!
