When Suwon Air Base BOSS President Kevin Gonzalez took the helm of the program, he made a promise to the Soldiers.
He kept his promise last month when Suwon Bluewings beat defending champions Vissel Kobe to qualify for the next round of the Asian Champions League. It’s the first time they have advanced from a group stage.
Location
Suwon ( 수원퍼블릭 ) is a major transportation hub and the administrative center of Gyeonggi province. Its UNESCO-listed city walls and home to the headquarters of Samsung Electronics are among its most popular attractions.
The city is serviced by four stops on Seoul Subway Line 1 (blue) and two bus routes: 92 and 310. The former runs to and from Incheon International Airport, while the latter connects to the suburb of Anyang.
Taxis are abundant and reasonably priced. Drivers may not speak English but a few offer free translation services. Moreover, many are willing to take you close to your destination for an extra fee.
The city has a wide range of accommodation options, from inexpensive guesthouses to luxury hotels and jjimjilbangs. Its student population also means that there is a good amount of low-cost, university-based options. Its central location is also attractive for those looking to save time and money by bypassing Seoul on a trip to other parts of the country.
Accommodations
Suwon offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Stay near the Hwaseong Fortress to explore the area’s rich history and culture or opt for a central location that puts you within easy reach of popular attractions.
Autumn (September to November)
Enjoy the beautiful autumn colors of the local parks, or head to Gwanggyosan Mountain for scenic hiking trails and panoramic views. Alternatively, take a guided tour of Suwon Science College and ignite your curiosity with interactive science exhibits and demonstrations. After your tour, take some time to shop and browse the many stores at AK Plaza, a massive shopping mall that serves up everything from fashion boutiques to electronics. In the evening, sample some of Suwon’s famous galbi (grilled marinated beef ribs) at one of its restaurants and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Dining
Whether you’re hungry for Suwon Galbi (grilled marinated beef ribs), want to experience the city’s culture, or enjoy a night out at a local festival, Suwon has a variety of dining options that are sure to satisfy.
Stroll along the scenic pathways of Suwoncheon Stream and admire the surrounding natural beauty. Sample fresh seafood from the Suwon Indoor Fish Market or savor delectable street food such as dakgalbi and bindaetteok.
During the summer, Suwon is at its liveliest with open-air festivals and vibrant street food scenes. Cool off from the heat at water parks or escape the sun at air-conditioned museums and shopping malls. Getting around Suwon is easy with the city’s subway and bus systems, which offer convenient access to all areas of the city. Visitors can also hail a taxi on the street or use ride-hailing apps like Uber and KakaoTaxi. Suwon is also well-served by intercity buses that connect with Seoul and other cities in the country.
Events
The perfect spot for a day trip from Seoul, Suwon is an ancient city with a unique blend of culture and history. The UNESCO-designated Hwaseong Fortress and ten traditional parks coexist with thriving markets and modern museums to bring you a truly balanced experience.
Explore Korean folklore at the Suwon Folk Village, a reconstructed village in nearby Yongin where you can witness historical reenactments and cultural performances, try your hand at traditional arts and crafts, and savor authentic cuisine. Alternatively, take a trip to the KBS Suwon Center and learn about the world of broadcasting.
Visit the Tomb of King Jeongjo at Hyowon Park to admire the traditional architecture and enjoy a peaceful retreat. Ignite your curiosity at the Suwon Science College where you can interact with interactive science exhibits and conduct hands-on experiments. Shop to your heart’s content at AK Plaza, a large shopping mall where you will find fashion boutiques, electronics stores, and a variety of restaurants.
