Exploring the Charm of Jangan-gu, Suwon

• Hello안녕하세요
  [annyeonghaseyo]
• Goodbye안녕히 가세요
  [annyeonghi gaseyo]
• Yes예
  [ye]
• No아니요
  [aniyo]
• Please/You're welcome부탁합니다 / 천만에요
  [butakhamnida / cheonmaneyo]
• Thank you감사합니다
  [gamsahamnida]
• Excuse me/Sorry죄송합니다
  [joesonghamnida]
• How are you?어떻게 지내세요?
  [eotteoke jinaeseyo?]
• Fine. And you?잘 지내요. 그리고 당신은요?
  [jal jinaeyo. geurigo dangsineunyo?]
• Do you speak English?영어 할 수 있어요?
  [yeongeo hal su isseoyo?]
• I don't understand이해하지 못해요
  [ihaehaji mothaeyo]

• I'd like to see the menu, please메뉴를 볼 수 있을까요?
  [menyureul bol su isseulkkayo?]
• I don't eat meat고기를 먹지 않아요
  [gogireul meokji anayo]
• Cheers!건배!
  [geonbae!]
• I would like to pay, please결제하고 싶어요
  [gyeoljehago sipeoyo]

• Help!도와주세요!
  [dowajuseyo!]
• Go away!가세요!
  [gaseyo!]
• Call the Police!경찰을 불러주세요!
  [gyeongchareul bulleojuseyo!]
• Call a doctor!의사를 불러주세요!
  [uisareul bulleojuseyo!]
• I'm lost길을 잃었어요
  [gireul ilheosseoyo]
• I'm ill아파요
  [apayo]

• I'd like to buy...사고 싶어요...
  [sago sipeoyo...]
• I'm just looking둘러보고 있어요
  [dulleobogo isseoyo]
• How much is it?얼마에요?
  [eolmaeyo?]
• That's too expensive너무 비싸요
  [neomu bissayo]
• Can you lower the price?가격을 깎아 줄 수 있어요?
  [gageoreul kkakka jul su isseoyo?]

• What time is it?지금 몇 시에요?
  [jigeum myeot sieyo?]
• It's one o'clock한 시에요
  [han sieyo]
• Half past (10)10시 반
  [sipshi ban]
• Morning아침
  [achim]
• Afternoon오후
  [ohu]
• Evening저녁
  [jeonyeok]
• Yesterday어제
  [eoje]
• Today오늘
  [oneul]
• Tomorrow내일
  [naeil]
• 1하나
  [hana]
• 2둘
  [dul]
• 3셋
  [set]
• 4넷
  [net]
• 5다섯
  [daseot]
• 6여섯
  [yeoseot]
• 7일곱
  [ilgop]
• 8여덟
  [yeodeol]
• 9아홉
  [ahop]
• 10열
  [yeol]

• Where's a/the...?어디에 ... 이에요?
  [eo die ... ieyo?]
• What's the address?주소가 뭐에요?
  [jusoga mwoeyo?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?지도로 보여 줄 수 있어요?
  [jido ro boyeo jul su isseoyo?]
• When's the next (bus)?다음 (버스) 언제와요?
  [daeum (beoseu) eonjewayo?]
• A ticket (to ....)표 (....으로)
  [pyo (....euro)]

Jangan-gu, part of Suwon, is renowned for its historical significance as a fortress town established during the late 18th century. The area is closely associated with the construction of the Hwaseong Fortress, which was built under the orders of King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty. This fortification served both military and administrative purposes, helping to protect the region from invasions and solidifying Suwon's status as the new capital of Gyeonggi Province.

Jangan-gu is home to numerous traditional Korean houses known as Hanok, showcasing the architectural style of the Joseon period. These structures reflect the unique cultural heritage of the area, with their wooden frames and tiled roofs. The preservation of these historical buildings contributes to the cultural landscape of Suwon and serves as a reminder of its rich past.

King Jeongjo, one of Korea's most revered monarchs, was born in the Jangan-gu neighborhood. His reign (1776-1800) was marked by significant reforms and cultural advancements. The king's birthplace is celebrated in the local culture, with various monuments and sites dedicated to his legacy, including the Jeongjo's Shrine, which attracts visitors interested in Korea's royal history.

During the early 20th century, Jangan-gu played a role in the Korean independence movement against Japanese colonial rule. The area became a gathering point for activists and intellectuals advocating for Korea's sovereignty. This historical context adds a layer of significance to the neighborhood as a site of resistance and cultural pride.

In recent decades, Jangan-gu has experienced rapid urbanization, transforming from a historical enclave into a modern residential and commercial area. This development has led to a blend of traditional and contemporary lifestyles, where the historical significance of the past coexists with the dynamic energy of present-day Suwon, making it a unique cultural landscape.

Jangan-gu is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Suwon. The area can be reached via the Suwon Station, which is serviced by the Seoul Subway Line 1. From Suwon Station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to reach specific locations within Jangan-gu. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. For those traveling from Seoul, the KTX and regular trains to Suwon Station offer a quick and comfortable ride, taking approximately 30-45 minutes.

Jangan-gu boasts a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and subways. The local bus network is extensive, and routes frequently cover major attractions and residential areas. The Suwon Subway Line 1 also runs through Jangan-gu, providing easy access to other districts. For a more local experience, consider renting a bicycle, as there are bike lanes available and rental stations throughout the area. Walking is also a pleasant option, especially in the park areas.

Jangan-gu is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, it is advisable to remain cautious, especially in less crowded areas at night. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so it’s wise to keep your belongings secure. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying aware of your surroundings is recommended, particularly in isolated spots.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police assistance and 119 for fire or medical emergencies. There are several hospitals and clinics in Jangan-gu, with signs in English for international visitors. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies provide over-the-counter medications, and staff often speak basic English.

Fashion: Do dress appropriately, especially when visiting temples or traditional sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect for local customs, such as bowing slightly when greeting, and do not take photos in sacred spaces without permission. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, or those with disabilities. Don’t talk loudly or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a slight bow. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and share meals with others. Don’t waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Jangan-gu like a local, visit traditional markets such as the Jangan Market, where you can find fresh produce and local delicacies. Don't miss out on trying Suwon's famous galbi (grilled ribs) at a local restaurant. Engage with locals; many are eager to share stories and recommendations. For a unique perspective, consider taking part in community events or festivals if your visit coincides with them.