🇰🇷 Discover Suwon: Korea’s Historic Gem Just Outside Seoul

Suwon is one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Seoul—and for good reason. Located just 30 kilometers south of the capital, it’s easily accessible by subway, train, or bus, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. Whether you’re staying in Hongdae, Gangnam, or near Seoul Station, you can reach Suwon in under an hour.

🚆 Getting to Suwon from Seoul

• From Seoul Station:
  • Subway Line 1: ~1 hour, ₩1,300
  • Nooriro Train: ~34 minutes, ₩2,700
  • KTX: ~25 minutes, ₩8,400
• From Hongdae (Hongik Univ. Station):
  • Transfer at Sindorim → Guro → Suwon Station
  • ~52 minutes, ₩4,100–₩7,000
• From Gangnam Station:

• Take Sinbundang Line → Transfer to Line 1
• ~1 hour 20 minutes, ₩3,300–₩6,700

Tickets are available at station kiosks or via apps like KORAIL Talk, and most accept T-Money cards.

🏯 Top 5 Attractions in Suwon

1. Hwaseong Fortress (수원화성)

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1796 by King Jeongjo.
• 5.7 km of walls, gates, and towers with panoramic views.
• Hours: Open 24/7 (some facilities 09:00–18:00)
• Admission: Free for the wall; nearby sites may charge.
• Why visit: A stunning blend of military architecture and royal history.

2. Hwaseong Haenggung Palace (화성행궁)

• A temporary palace used by King Jeongjo during visits to Suwon.
• Hours: 09:00–18:00 daily
• Admission: Adults ₩2,000 / Teens ₩1,500 / Children ₩1,000
• Why visit: Watch the guard-changing ceremony and explore drama filming locations.

3. Suwon Museum of Art (수원시립아이파크미술관)

• A modern art museum housed in a hanok-style building.
• Hours: 10:00–18:00 (Closed Mondays)
• Admission: Adults ₩4,000 / Students ₩2,000
• Why visit: A peaceful space to enjoy Korean contemporary art.

4. Haengnidan Street (행리단길)

• A trendy street near Hwaseong Fortress filled with cafés, boutiques, and hanok-style shops.
• Admission: Free
• Why visit: Perfect for photos, shopping, and relaxing.

5. Suwon Chicken Street (수원통닭거리)

• A retro alley famous for old-school Korean fried chicken.
• Admission: Free
• Why visit: Crispy, flour-free chicken served with cold beer in nostalgic settings.

🍖 Suwon Is Galbi Heaven

Suwon is especially famous for its galbi (marinated beef short ribs). Locals say you haven’t truly visited Suwon until you’ve had galbi here. In addition to the well-known restaurants like Bonsuwon Galbi and Kabojung Kalbi, there are dozens of other hidden gems worth exploring.

📝 Tip: Ask locals or hotel staff for their favorite galbi spot—they’ll likely point you to a neighborhood favorite with long lines and unforgettable flavor.

🍽️ 3 Highly Rated Restaurants in Suwon

1. Bonsuwon Galbi (본수원갈비)

• Specialty: Marinated beef short ribs
• Menu: ₩35,000–₩45,000 per person
• Includes: Banchan, rice, soup
• Rating: 4.2/5

2. Kabojung Kalbi (가보정갈비)

• Specialty: Premium Korean BBQ
• Menu: ₩40,000+, lunch sets ₩20,000–₩30,000
• Rating: 4.1/5

3. Maehyang Whole Chicken (매향통닭)

• Specialty: Fried whole chicken
• Menu: ₩15,000 for chicken, ₩4,000 for beer
• Rating: 4.2/5

Whether you’re walking fortress walls, sipping coffee in a hanok café, or savoring sizzling galbi, Suwon offers a rich slice of Korean culture just a short ride from Seoul. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to go beyond the capital and dive into Korea’s royal past and culinary traditions.