[ Suwon: Hwaseong Haenggung ]
Discovering the Historic Hwaseong Haenggung Palace in Suwon, Korea
ππ Suwon Haenggung (Google Maps) ππ
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825 Jeongjo-ro, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do
If you're a history lover or simply exploring the cultural gems of South Korea, Hwaseong Haenggung Palace in Suwon is a must-visit destination! π―✨ Let’s dive into the fascinating story behind this unique royal residence.
π What is Hwaseong Haenggung?
Hwaseong Haenggung is a temporary palace (called “Haenggung” in Korean), built during the Joseon Dynasty by King Jeongjo, the 22nd king of Joseon. It was constructed between 1794 and 1796, alongside the larger Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon.
But why was it built? π€
King Jeongjo built Hwaseong Haenggung to honor and visit his father’s tomb, the tomb of Crown Prince Sado, known today as Yungneung in Hwaseong.
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| King Jeongjo, the 22nd king of Joseon |
π° A Royal Residence with a Purpose
Unlike other palaces, this wasn’t just a place to relax. King Jeongjo used Hwaseong Haenggung to:
▣ Stay overnight during visits to the tomb
▣ Command military training
▣ Hold events and communicate with his people
It became a symbol of reform and royal leadership, and was the largest Haenggung (temporary palace) ever built during the Joseon era.
π️ What’s Inside?
The palace complex includes several beautiful and historically significant buildings such as:
▣ Bongsudang – where official ceremonies were held
▣ Yuyeotaek – the king’s sleeping quarters
▣ Noraedang – a space for entertainment and music
Each area reflects the architectural beauty and royal lifestyle of the late 18th century.
π️ Destruction and Loss
Sadly, during the Japanese colonial period, many parts of Hwaseong Haenggung and Hwaseong Fortress were damaged or demolished. The Japanese authorities systematically destroyed Korean historical structures and cultural heritage.
Later, the Korean War caused even more destruction, and most of the palace buildings were lost. Only a few remained, and even those were heavily damaged.
π§ Restoration and Rebirth
Thankfully, starting in the late 20th century, restoration efforts began. The palace has been carefully reconstructed based on historical records and blueprints to revive its original form.
Today, Hwaseong Haenggung serves as:
▣ A historical attraction
▣ A cultural experience center
▣ A site for traditional performances and reenactments
π Visiting Today
Hwaseong Haenggung is located in Suwon, just about an hour from Seoul. It's a perfect day-trip spot where you can walk through history, wear hanbok (Korean traditional clothing), and even witness traditional martial arts performances.
Whether you're into Korean history, architecture, or just looking for a beautiful place to explore — Hwaseong Haenggung is a place where the past truly comes alive.
π How to Get There
Take the subway to Suwon Station (Line 1) → transfer to a local bus or taxi to Hwaseong Haenggung.
Pros:
1. It makes you think about Korean history again
2. The number of cafes is increasing, so it's good for a date course for families and couples
3. There's Haenggung Square, so kids can play too.
Cons:
1. There are too few bathrooms..!!!!!! (If you don't go to a coffee shop or restaurant, the waiting line is long and it's absolutely impossible to solve when you're in a hurry.)
2. You should never drive there. (There's a parking lot next to Haenggung and an underground parking lot in the art museum, but wow~~ It seems worse than the traffic jam on the highway during the holidays.)
3. Waiting at restaurants and cafes. (There are many stores that are remodeled from regular houses, so the overall building area is small, so waiting is long.)
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