Why every couple in Seoul is going to Suwon on the weekend (and why you should too)
- Jul 29
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 4
While Seoul is full of energy, cafés, and neon lights, sometimes you just want to escape the crowds — without going too far. That’s exactly why Suwon has become one of the hottest weekend destinations for local couples and travelers who want to dive into Korean history with a creative, modern twist.
Just one hour from the capital, Suwon blends the charm of tradition, the beauty of nature, and the vibe of a low-key arts district. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a friend, or on a romantic trip, this city is the perfect day trip from Seoul — and here’s why.
A City Protected by Walls — Literally
Welcome to Hwaseong Fortress, one of Korea’s most impressive historical sites. Built in 1794 by King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty, this massive structure surrounds Suwon’s old city like a protective embrace. It’s more than 5 km long, with impressive gates, archery towers, and hidden paths winding through hills and gardens.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fortress is not just a monument — it’s alive. Locals walk its trails at sunset, couples take photos at the lookout points, and every morning, the area in front of the palace comes alive with a traditional martial arts performance (free and open to the public!).
Must-see spots inside the fortress:
Paldalmun Gate – stunning architecture in the city center
Seojangdae Watchtower – great views and historical value
Hwahongmun Gate – picture-perfect over a quiet stream
Hwaseomun Gate Trail – peaceful, tree-lined walk away from the crowds
Hwaseong Haenggung Palace: A Royal Retreat
Nestled within the fortress walls is Hwaseong Haenggung, a beautifully preserved royal palace used by the king during his visits outside of Seoul. Compared to the grand palaces in the capital, this one feels quieter, more relaxed — yet just as full of stories.
You’ll walk through elegant wooden halls, royal bedrooms, and audience chambers, learning about King Jeongjo’s plans to make Suwon the “ideal city” of Joseon Korea.
📸 Photo tip: The inner courtyards are especially beautiful in the morning when the light hits the rooftops.
A Favorite for K-Drama Fans: Suwon on Screen
If you love K-dramas, Suwon is like stepping into your favorite show.
Many dramas — especially historical ones — are filmed here thanks to the authenticity of the fortress and palace. But even modern dramas have found magic in Suwon’s streets, cafés, and cozy alleys.
Here are some of the most iconic filming spots to look for:
Lovely Runner (2024)
📍 Café Anthracite Suwon & Fortress wall
Rooftop date scenes + fortress walk at sunset.
Twenty-Five Twenty-One (2022)
📍 Haenggung-dong neighborhood & Paldalmun Market
Yi-jin and Hee-do’s weekend stroll scenes filmed here.
Our Beloved Summer (2021)
📍 Choi Woong’s House & Hwaseong Fortress
The iconic exterior of Woong’s house is located in a quiet alley in Suwon, near Hwaseong Fortress. Several emotional scenes, including romantic walks and reflective moments, were filmed along the fortress wall and in the surrounding traditional neighborhoods.
The Red Sleeve (2021)
📍 Hwaseong Haenggung Palace
Multiple scenes between King Jeongjo and Deok-im were filmed in the palace courtyard.
The Crowned Clown (2019)
📍 Hwaseong Fortress walls
Fight and palace scenes filmed along fortress gates and towers.
Haenggung-dong: Art Meets Café Culture
Hidden just behind the palace walls, Haenggung-dong is Suwon’s coolest neighborhood — a place where tradition and creativity live side by side. While most tourists come for the fortress, the real charm begins when you wander into this cozy maze of mural-covered alleys, hanok cafés, artisan shops, and quiet corners perfect for a lazy afternoon.
Haenggung-dong is part of the Haenggung Art Village, a government-supported revitalization project that turned once-forgotten backstreets into a colorful neighborhood full of street art and creativity.
What you’ll find:
Bright murals on every corner: from cartoon characters to traditional motifs
Painted staircases and rooftops with fortress views
Tiny galleries, pottery studios, and photo zones
Cafés You’ll Want to Move Into
What makes Haenggung-dong so beloved by couples and weekend visitors is the incredible café scene — many of them located inside hanok houses or small converted workshops.
Here are a few must-visits:
📍 Cafe Hansum
Nestled in a quiet alley behind Hwaseong Fortress, Cafe Hansum offers a cozy European-style interior blended with Korean charm. Divided into four intimate spaces, the café is known for its warm ambiance and vintage touches. It also serves delightful traditional rice cakes—like honey or pumpkin mochi—alongside comforting drinks such as yuzu tea.
📍 Jung Jiyoung Coffee Roasters
Rooftop coffee with stunning views of Hwaseong Fortress, cozy interiors, and excellent coconut lattes. A favorite spot to enjoy lingering views of the ancient walls with 12:30 pm freshly baked pastries.
📍 Cafe Paletscent
Minimalist aesthetic and on-point desserts, with one of the most photogenic views of the fortress gate. The rooftop viewpoint is perfect for life‑shots overlooking Hwaseong.
📍 Hongrad Haenggung
A retro-vibe café right across from the palace, filled with quirky decor, cozy corners, and nostalgic details. Try their bear-shaped Einspänner or croffle with ice cream while enjoying views of the fortress from the second floor.
Handmade, Local, and Unexpected
Haenggung-dong is also a great place to shop for souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else. From handmade jewelry and ceramics to traditional crafts and postcards made by local illustrators, it's a refreshing break from mass-produced tourist goods.
Many shops are run by independent artists who are happy to chat or show you their process. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a weekend pop-up market or street performance.
Suwon Galbi & Local Flavors
You can’t visit Suwon without trying its signature dish: Suwon galbi (marinated beef ribs). The meat is grilled right at your table, and many local restaurants use recipes passed down for generations. Head to Paldalmun Market for the most authentic versions.
Not a meat eater? No problem — you'll also find great mandu (dumplings), vegetarian bibimbap, and traditional sweets throughout the city.
How to Visit Suwon the Easy Way
Sure, you can get to Suwon on your own, but navigating buses, maps, ticket machines, and Korean-only signage takes time (and patience). That’s why many travelers — especially those visiting for the first time — choose to join a small guided day tour.
It’s a stress-free way to enjoy the best of Suwon in one day:
Private transport from central Seoul
Entry to the fortress and palace
Expert guide
Free time in Haenggung-dong
One local snack included
The best part? You’re back in Seoul before dinner — with photos, stories, and maybe a few new K-drama obsessions.
Book our trip here:
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