Paldal-gu: The Historic Heart of Suwon

• Hello안녕하세요
  [annyeonghaseyo]
• Goodbye안녕히 가세요
  [annyeonghi gaseyo]
• Yes네
  [ne]
• 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 줄 아세요?
  [yeongeo hal jul aseyo?]
• I don't understand이해하지 못합니다
  [ihaehaji moshamnida]

• I'd like to see the menu, please메뉴를 보고 싶어요
  [menyureul bogo sippeoyo]
• I don't eat meat고기를 먹지 않아요
  [gogireul meokji anayo]
• Cheers!건배!
  [geonbae!]
• I would like to pay, please결제하고 싶어요
  [gyeoljehago sippeoyo]

• 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...구입하고 싶어요...
  [guibhago sippeoyo...]
• I'm just looking구경만 하고 있어요
  [gugyeongman hago isseoyo]
• How much is it?얼마에요?
  [eolmaeyo?]
• That's too expensive너무 비싸요
  [neomu bissayo]
• Can you lower the price?가격을 낮출 수 있어요?
  [gageogeul natchul 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
  [sip si 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...?...이 어디에 있어요?
  [...i eodie isseoyo?]
• What's the address?주소가 뭐에요?
  [jusoga mwoeyo?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?지도로 보여주세요?
  [jidoro boyeojuseyo?]
• When's the next (bus)?다음 (버스) 언제와요?
  [daeum (beoseu) eonjewayo?]
• A ticket (to ....)표 (....로)
  [pyo (....ro)]

Paldal-gu is intrinsically linked to the founding of Suwon in the late 18th century. In 1794, King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty chose the area to build Hwaseong Fortress as a means to protect the royal tomb of his father, Prince Sado. The construction of the fortress, which took place from 1794 to 1796, marked a significant urban development in Paldal-gu, transforming it into a strategic military and administrative center.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, Hwaseong Fortress is a prime example of late 18th-century military architecture. Its walls and gates, located in Paldal-gu, are not only impressive structures but also reflect the cultural and historical significance of the era. The fortress embodied the principles of modern fortification and was a symbol of King Jeongjo's reformist vision and dedication to his father's legacy.

Throughout the 20th century, Paldal-gu experienced substantial economic growth as Suwon evolved into an industrial city. The establishment of various factories and businesses transformed the local economy, drawing in residents from surrounding areas. This industrial boom led to the development of infrastructure and services, which in turn contributed to the cultural diversity and vibrancy of the neighborhood.

In the late 20th century, Paldal-gu played a pivotal role during the democratic movements in South Korea. The area became a gathering point for protests and civic activities advocating for democracy and social change. This period significantly shaped the modern identity of Paldal-gu, as it became associated with the struggles and aspirations of the South Korean people.

Paldal-gu is home to various cultural festivals that celebrate the region's rich history and community spirit. Events such as the Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival showcase traditional performances, crafts, and local cuisine, allowing residents and visitors to engage with the area's cultural heritage. These festivals foster a sense of community and highlight the importance of preserving Paldal-gu's unique identity within Suwon.

Paldal-gu is conveniently located within Suwon and can be accessed easily from other neighborhoods. If you're arriving from Suwon Station, take a local bus or a taxi for a short ride of about 10 minutes. The nearest subway station is Suwon Station on Line 1, which connects you to Seoul and other cities. Buses also run frequently from various parts of Suwon, with several lines stopping at key locations in Paldal-gu.

Paldal-gu is pedestrian-friendly, making walking a pleasant way to explore the area. Public transportation options include buses and the subway, with several bus lines servicing the neighborhood. Bicycles can be rented from local bike-sharing services, and taxis are readily available for longer trips. The area is compact, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Paldal-gu is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in busy markets or public transport hubs.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police assistance or 119 for fire and medical emergencies. The local hospital is located in Paldal-gu, and pharmacies are available for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or traditional sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering religious sites, remove your shoes if required. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to the elderly or pregnant women. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a slight bow and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and share meals with others. Don’t refuse food offerings, as it may be considered disrespectful.

To experience Paldal-gu like a local, visit the traditional markets for fresh produce and local snacks. Engage with street vendors and ask for recommendations. Attend local festivals if you're in town during one for a taste of the community culture. Try the local specialty, Suwon galbi (grilled ribs), at a neighborhood restaurant. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions or advice, as they are usually friendly and willing to help.