✧ Series Note – South Korea Trip 2024 ✧
Feels like coming home. Like flipping through a familiar chapter, this time with braver eyes and a bolder heart. 🇰🇷✨
📅 November 01-06, 2024

“The walled fortress is still standing despite the test of time.”

As I meticulously planned my South Korean itinerary, I knew I had to include a visit to the historic Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon—a majestic site I’d glimpsed in countless Korean dramas.

Clad in my sleek all-black outfit (feeling like I stepped out of a sageuk-meets-modern-day crossover), I made my way to Seoul Station, passing the elevated Seoul 7017 Skygarden. The train ride took about an hour, with the busy city fading into quieter suburbs and pockets of greenery. I arrived at Suwon Station with anticipation building.

☕ A Warm Cup and a Cold Morning

The first thing I did? Head to Starbucks. The scent of coffee and the cozy corner near the Novotel made a perfect spot to pause, sip, and plan my next move. I waited for the bus that would take me to Paldalmun Gate, one of the main entrances to the fortress.

Navigating Suwon’s bus system, however, was… let’s just say, character-building. 😅 While waiting, a lively group of seniors boarded and filled the bus with laughter and warm chatter. Instead of squeezing in, I got off a stop earlier and walked the rest of the way—surprisingly, just a short stroll.

🎭 Royal Grounds and Martial Arts

As I approached Haenggung Palace, I was greeted by excited schoolchildren gathering for the weekend 24 Martial Arts Performance—a spectacle that transported me to the Joseon era. Known as Sip-sa Ban Mu, these techniques once trained royal guards and soldiers, blending discipline, grace, and raw power.

I bought a ₩1,000 entrance ticket and wandered through the palace’s serene halls. This was once a temporary royal residence—where King Jeongjo stayed while honoring his father’s tomb. Each room echoed with history. And though time has passed, the aura of strength and sanctuary remains.

🚶‍♀️ The Path to the Fortress

Armed with Naver Map (and my own stubborn sense of direction), I walked toward the fortress walls. Of course, I got a little lost. But after a few detours, I found the right path, each turn revealing more of the grandeur ahead.

The northern gate, Janganmun, soon came into view—imposing and noble, with intricately carved wood and watchful stone walls. Built in the late 18th century under King Jeongjo, the fortress once protected the city and now stands as a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site.

🛡️ Suhyunjung: A Gate to All Directions

As I rode the bus downhill, one historic structure caught my eye: Suhyunjung, the southern gate. Standing alone in the middle of a bustling street, it felt like a living memory embedded in modern life. The gate’s name translates to “a gate opening to the road that leads in all directions”—a poetic reminder of Suwon’s significance and of the paths we all take, literally and figuratively.

Its grand structure—detached from the fortress wall yet firmly rooted in history—commanded admiration. The gate wasn’t just a photo stop; it was a full-circle moment of awe.

🚌 Getting Lost Again, But It’s Okay

And then… Yes. I took the wrong bus back to the station. 😅
Even with Naver Map, I somehow landed at the wrong stop. But thankfully, a nearby bus stop saved me, and before long, I was back at Suwon Station. The ride to Seoul was peaceful and reflective, a quiet hour to replay the day’s moments in my mind.

I grabbed dinner on the third floor of the station—where restaurants glowed with warm lights and sizzling smells—and finally returned to my guesthouse.

💤 The Roommates Arrive…

Just as I was winding down, two Chinese-speaking girls entered the dorm. Their conversation? Lively and loud. 😬 I silently hoped they’d lower their voices—so everyone could enjoy a well-earned rest.

💙 Why Suwon Stays With Me

Suwon quickly became one of my favorite destinations in Korea. This city blends modernity and tradition in the most seamless way. The food scene is flavorful and fun, the locals are kind, and the historical landmarks are deeply moving.

🌙 Reflection: The Gentle Goodbye

From fortress walls to palace gates, martial arts to map mishaps—this day trip reminded me that sometimes, getting a little lost leads to exactly where you’re meant to be.

I know I haven’t seen it all yet—charming cafés, hidden markets, Korean drama filming locations, and new walking paths still await. And I can’t wait to return to Suwon someday to uncover more of its timeless magic.

*** I wrapped up 2024 with a solo trip to South Korea as the finale. From visa anxieties to subway rides, from cathedral quiet to Myeongdong chaos, I’m documenting the highs, lows, and everything in between. Thank you for reading, supporting, and walking this path with me—one step, one train, one heartwarming misadventure at a time. 💙***