Hi Earthlings!
I'm not a die-hard K-drama or K-pop fan, but I've watched some of the big shows and listened to some of the music (although I have no idea what they're talking about). As a traveler, though, I'm passionate about exploring sights, culture, beauty, and everyday life—not in some curated way, but as a total DIY traveler.
If you are a fan of Korean dramas, Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon, South Korea is a must-visit attraction! Getting there is very easy, just take the train to Suwon, walk out of AK Plaza (near Novotel) and catch any bus like 66, 66-4 or 1007 and they will drop you off at a nearby station. . From there it's a short walk to explore. For landmarks, check out my vlog around 2:00 – I show the church and the walkway that takes you directly to the Palada Gate grounds. Watch the video below for the full rundown!
Hwaseong: Brief Background
Hwaseong is a UNESCO World Heritage Site But not only is it a historical treasure, it is also the filming location for several popular Korean dramas such as my love from the stars and Outstanding Lawyer Hu.
Fans of My Love from the Star will recognize the fort and its iconic gates, which appear in memorable scenes from the show, adding a cinematic feel to this historical treasure. Walking through these attractions truly feels like stepping onto the set of a Korean drama, bringing your favorite moments to life.
If you need a map to tour the fort, just head to the tourist information kiosk to the right of the gate and arch – they have free maps! Oh, and another fun fact: the city walls stretch for about 5.79 kilometers, so this is the perfect way to access those steps!
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Hwaseong Fortress became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 due to its impressive architecture and history. Built in the late 18th century by King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty, it is an important expression of military and cultural heritage. The fort's massive stone walls stretch for nearly 6 kilometers and offer stunning views of Suwon. From the majestic Paldalmun to the cool watchtowers, every nook and cranny showcases the genius and craftsmanship of the North Korean era.
A fusion of history and Korean drama magic
Walking along the ancient wall of Hwaseong is like walking into a Korean drama dream! Not only do you get a taste of Korea’s rich history, but you also get the ultimate city view from there – it’s breathtaking. my love from the stars Some epic scenes were filmed here, so you can relive those iconic moments while soaking up the atmosphere of the fort. In addition, fans Outstanding Lawyer Hu You will also find part of the fortress. It's like a real life crossover episode!
Explore nearby Haenggungdong Village
Next to the fort is Haenggungdong Village, a charming area filled with traditional Korean houses, cafes, and vibrant street art. The village has also been the filming location for other TV shows such as Twenty-five, twenty-oneand our favorite summer. The Haenggung-dong Mural Village is particularly popular. The colorful murals in the alleys create an artistic atmosphere suitable for taking photos and leisurely strolling.
Cozy cafe and Korean house
First of all, it was very hot when we went so we missed out on some cool places. But the area around the fort is a goldmine of cozy cafes and charming teahouses!
After a day of exploring the historic Hwaseong Fortress and strolling through the picturesque Haenggungdong Village, we only passed House Plan B and Booter Cafe, but I was completely mesmerized by their appearance!
House Plan B caught my attention with its simple, rustic charm and warm, inviting atmosphere. It looks like the perfect cozy place to have a cup of coffee. Booter Cafe, meanwhile, has a quirky, retro look with colorful, mismatched furniture and vintage knick-knacks that made me wish I could pop in for a latte and some dessert. Both spots seemed like the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing and soak up the local charm!
If you're frustrated by something completely offbeat, check out East Cafe. It has a poop-themed decor (yes, you read that right!). It sounds a little crazy, but it's a blast and makes for some wacky Insta photos. To create a cooler atmosphere, Terra Rosa Coffee Hwaseong Coffee Street is your first choice. They serve delicious locally roasted coffee in a super quiet setting. Plus, many of these scenes have been featured in Korean dramas, so you'll soak up some pop culture magic, too.
Why you should visit
Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or flying solo, Hwaseong in Suwon has something for everyone. It's an easy day trip from Seoul – just hop on the train to Suwon and get ready to explore. There is so much to do and you could easily spend a whole day enjoying it all!
