Hwaseong Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Suwon

SEOUL, January 23 (AJP) - Nestled in the city of Suwon, just south of Seoul, Hwaseong Fortress is a stunning reminder of Korea’s rich history. Built during the reign of King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty between 1794 and 1796, this impressive fortress was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

This image shows the walls and structures of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

The fortress spans 5.7 kilometers and features four grand gates, intricate defensive structures, and architectural marvels that combine strength with beauty. A leisurely two-hour walk around the fortress walls offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience both the past and present cultures of Suwon. While much of the path lies on flat terrain, the trail extends up Paldalsan Mountain, where the Seo Jangdae (Western Command Post) sits atop the peak. From here, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Suwon’s cityscape.

This image shows Seo Jangdae (Western Command Post) atop the Paldalsan mountain near the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

Surrounding the fortress, you’ll find traditional markets bustling with life, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of local residents. The area is also home to cozy cafes and restaurants serving Suwon’s signature dish, Suwon galbi (marinated grilled ribs), making it an excellent spot to relax and recharge.

Although the Hwaseong Fortress endured natural disasters, Japanese colonial rule, and the Korean War, its meticulous restoration was made possible by the Hwaseong Seongyeok Uigwe, a comprehensive construction record created in the 1970s that included detailed drawings and instructions on how to set up[ castle walls. Remarkably, Hwaseong became one of the rare exceptions to UNESCO's rule of listing only original structures, earning recognition for its faithful restoration. The Hwaseong Seongyeok Uigwe itself is now part of the Joseon Dynasty Uigwe collection, inscribed as a UNESCO Memory of the World. Thanks to these records, the fortress can undergo modern maintenance without losing its World Heritage status.

This image shows Paldal-mun, one of the four grand gates of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

Among its four main gates, Janganmun and Paldalmun stand out with their grandeur, located in the heart of the city. Hwaseong also boasts other magnificent structures, including Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, a royal residence used by King Jeongjo during his visits to pay respects at his father Prince Sado’s tomb. Other architectural highlights, such as the picturesque Hwahongmun Gate and Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion, showcase the fortress's exceptional beauty.

Reaching Suwon is convenient—just a one-hour subway ride from Seoul. For international visitors exploring Korea, Hwaseong Fortress is a must-see destination that combines history, culture, and scenic charm into an unforgettable experience.

This image shows Jangang-mun, one of the four grand gates of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

This image shows Dongiporu, a soldiers' station, atop a beacon mound of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

This image shows Hwahong-mun, gates of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

This image shows Yong-yeon (dragon pond in Korean) and Dongbukgakru, a watchmen's tower, of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

This image shows Hwaseong Hanggung, a temporary palace, in the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

This image shows the snow-covered walls of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

This image shows Changryong-mun, one of the four grand gates of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

This image shows Yeonmudae, the commanding post of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

This image shows Paldal-mun, one of the four grand gates of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

This image shows Jangang-mun, one of the four grand gates of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

This image shows the snow-covered walls of the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. AJP Cho Bo-hee

This image shows Hwaseong Fortress signpost indicating that the historical site has been selected as a UNESCO Heritage site. AJP Cho Bo-hee

CHO BOHEE jobo@ajunews.com