King Jeongjo's Royal Parade
Oct 4, 2026 · Seoul
Overview
King Jeongjo's Royal Parade to Hwaseong Fortress recreates one of the most remarkable events of the Joseon dynasty. In 1795, King Jeongjo traveled from Seoul to Suwon to celebrate the 60th birthday of his mother, Queen Heonui, sharing the eight-day journey with the people along the route. Based on records from the "Wonhaeng Eulmyo Jeongni Uigwe," the festival faithfully reenacts the royal procession with traditional costumes, performances, and ceremonial displays. Held through the cooperation of Seoul, Gyeonggi-do, Suwon, and Hwaseong, the event offers visitors a chance to experience the grandeur and spirit of a historic royal celebration.
Why go
This one-day event reenacts King Jeongjo's 1795 royal procession from Seoul to Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon, staged to celebrate his mother's 60th birthday and based on the historical record Wonhaeng Eulmyo Jeongni Uigwe. Expect traditional costumes, a ceremonial departure, and parade performances spanning Seoul, Suwon, and Hwaseong, jointly run by the Seoul, Gyeonggi, Suwon, and Hwaseong authorities. Admission is free, though some individual programs may carry separate fees.
Getting there from Seoul
The Seoul portion starts at Gyeongbokgung Palace, reachable by subway (Gyeongbokgung Station or Gwanghwamun Station) in central Seoul. To follow the parade onward to the Suwon and Hwaseong sections, take the subway/Korail line or a train from Seoul toward Suwon Station, roughly 40-60 minutes depending on the service, then continue locally to Hwaseong Fortress.
Tips
- The day runs 09:00-21:00, so plan which city's program (Seoul, Suwon, or Hwaseong) you want to catch, as the parade moves between locations.
- General admission is free, but confirm in advance if any specific program you want requires a separate ticket.
- Arrive early to Gyeongbokgung for the Ceremony of Departure and Citizen Parade, as procession routes tend to draw crowds for viewing spots.
Best for: history buffs, photographers, families, culture enthusiasts.
Program
Seoul: Ceremony of Departure, Citizen Parade, etc.
Suwon: Welcoming King Jeongjo, Suwon Hwaseong Parade, etc.
Hwaseong: Modern Section Parade, Traditional Section Parade, etc.
Photos
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
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Reach travelers heading to Seoul: sponsor this page.
Dates and programs can change. Check the official site before you go.