The plaza in front of Hwaseong Haenggung in Suwon has been restored to its original appearance and is becoming the center of Hwaseong tourism where visitors can enjoy various Korean traditional cultures. In particular, it is expected to be popular with foreign tourists as they can glimpse the historical significance of Hwaseong Haenggung.
According to the Hwaseong Project Office, the city commissioned the Institute for Korean Cultural Heritage Studies last year to conduct a cultural heritage survey of approximately 6,755 pyeong (about 22,300 square meters) surrounding Hwaseong Haenggung before beginning plaza construction. The survey uncovered the retaining stone walls (stacked interlocking stones) of the Myeongdangsu stream that once flowed from Paldal Mountain to the front of Hwaseong Haenggung, as well as portions of the abutment stones of Shinpung Bridge.
After confirming that portions of the retaining stone walls had been distorted and altered by Japanese colonial rule, the city launched restoration projects for Myeongdangsu and Shinpung Bridge with a budget of 1.2 billion won. In March, the entire 84-meter section of Shinpung Bridge and Myeongdangsu was restored.
Additionally, the city plans to relocate the position of the hongsal gate (traditional wooden gate) in front of the restored Shinpung Bridge and complete landscaping of the 125-meter area in front of the hongsal gate this week.
Notably, the city plans to create an eoro (royal path) in the center of the plaza once Suwon Post Office relocates. The eoro will span a total of 130 meters from Shinpung Bridge, and will be distinguished by color during plaza paving construction. Both sides of the plaza will reserve space for future planning and development.
The Hwaseong Promotion Center, which opened in March, is a four-story facility (two basement, two above ground) equipped with planned exhibition halls, 3D theater, and two permanent exhibition spaces. The exhibition halls feature opening commemoration exhibits showcasing artifacts of Chae Je-gong, and the 3D theater screens three-dimensional images including Hwaseong's history, providing diverse attractions.
Additionally, around May, the city will obtain implementation approval to develop the bell tower area into a history park and begin construction, with completion targeted for late next year.
A bell-ringing ceremony commemorating the fortress will be recreated annually at the newly restored bell tower.
Tourists, including foreign visitors, coming to Hwaseong Haenggung will now be able to enjoy various performances including the water ceremony of Jangyongyeong, Muyae 24 Gi (24 martial arts techniques), equestrian martial arts, court dance, nongak (farmers' dance), and tightrope walking.
In addition, visitors will be able to see Hwaseong's history at a glance at the Hwaseong Promotion Center, so the plaza is expected to attract many tourists.
An official from the Hwaseong Project Office stated, "If the post office relocation occurs in October, park development will be possible in the first half of next year," and added, "Once park development is completed, we will be able to communicate Hwaseong's culture, history, and performances to the many tourists visiting Hwaseong."
Meanwhile, the number of tourists visiting 'Suwon Hwaseong' increased 115% from 895,356 in 2005 to 1,028,140 in 2006. Revenue also increased 166% from 413,992,150 won in 2005 to 687,441,700 won in 2006.
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