Suwon Special City: Where Tradition Meets the Future
Nestled in the heart of South Korea, Suwon Special City is known as the "City of Hyo (Filial Piety)," rich in history and culture. This city tells the poignant and moving story of King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty and his father, Crown Prince Sado. Crown Prince Sado faced a tragic fate in 1762, and to honor his father's memory, Jeongjo relocated Sado’s tomb from Yangju to the beautiful Suwon, known for its harmonious natural scenery and auspicious qualities.
In 1789, captivated by Suwon's charm, King Jeongjo initiated the construction of Hwaseong Fortress, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. This fortress was part of Jeongjo’s vision to create a planned city and is connected to the roads that King Jeongjo traveled from Hanyang during his 24-year reign. Today, this road is used as Korea's National Route 1. Thanks to this historical legacy, Suwon has become the first city in South Korea to implement Intelligent Transport
Systems (ITS).
As time has passed, Suwon has evolved into a vibrant city where history gracefully intertwines with modernity. As a leader in ITS, the city embodies innovation while respecting tradition.
Suwon awaits you with open arms, ready to welcome you to a place where the past, present, and future converge!
Suwon Special City : A City for Tradition and Flavor
Suwon Special City is a place where history and tradition thrive. As a commercial hub centered around the Suwon Cattle Market, it has grown into one of South Korea's major economic centers. Since the mid-19th century, the Suwon Cattle Market became a key gathering point for cattle from the Chungcheong-do region, establishing itself as one of the top three cattle markets in the country and driving Suwon's growth as a commercial city.
One of Suwon's most iconic dishes, Suwon Galbi (grilled short ribs), was born from the high-quality Korean beef traded at this market. Suwon Galbi is prepared by marinating thick beef ribs in a sweet soy-based sauce and grilling them over charcoal. This dish first gained popularity in the 1940s at a restaurant called Hwachunok, and it soon became renowned across the nation.
Today, Suwon Galbi preserves its culinary tradition while promoting the city's history and culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in Suwon's historical backdrop while savoring the rich, flavorful taste of Suwon Galbi, creating unforgettable memories in the process.
Another must-visit spot in Suwon is the Suwon Chicken Street, a unique area where the nostalgic atmosphere of old traditional markets mingles with the savory aroma of fried chicken. This street is home to numerous shops and long-standing eateries, dating back to the 1980s, even before fast-food chains became prevalent in South Korea. Traditional fried chicken restaurants have lined this street, from Maehyang Chicken to Jinmi Chicken, making it a prime destination for experiencing Suwon's old-time charm and flavors.
The fried chicken in Suwon Chicken Street is known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, evoking a sense of nostalgia with its classic preparation. The tightly packed restaurants along the narrow alley boast a long history, establishing themselves as a culinary landmark in Suwon. Visitors can indulge in the deep flavors of traditional fried chicken while exploring the city's unique food culture and heritage.
Suwon Special City : Where Sports Passion Lives
Suwon Special City is one of the most vibrant cities in South Korea when it comes to football enthusiasm, with Suwon World Cup Stadium at its heart. Built for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, this stadium, affectionately known as "Big Bird," is a beloved landmark among football fans. With a seating capacity of over 44,000, Suwon World Cup Stadium features modern design, excellent facilities, and top-notch acoustics, offering spectators an unparalleled viewing experience.
The stadium serves as the home ground for Suwon Samsung Bluewings, a popular team in the K League 1. Deeply rooted in the Suwon community, the Bluewings enjoy immense support from local fans, turning the stadium into a sea of passion and cheers on match days. Beyond K League matches, the stadium also hosts various international football games, cementing its status as a premier sports venue representing Suwon.
Suwon is also home to a thriving baseball culture. KT Wiz Park, a favorite destination for baseball fans, is the home stadium of the KT Wiz, a prominent team in the KBO League. Since KT Wiz joined the KBO League in 2015, the park has become a hallmark of Suwon's baseball scene. Located within Suwon Sports Complex, KT Wiz Park has a seating capacity of approximately 20,000 and boasts a modern design with fan-friendly amenities, ensuring a comfortable viewing environment.
KT Wiz Park offers diverse conveniences and a unique viewing culture for baseball enthusiasts. The stadium features a variety of food options and facilities that cater to everyone, from families to die-hard fans. KT Wiz also prioritizes fan engagement, hosting numerous events and promotions during games to enrich Suwon's vibrant baseball culture.
Through these football and baseball stadiums, Suwon provides unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors alike, fostering a space where people can enjoy sports and connect with one another.