Suwon

1. AK Plaza Suwon

Category: Shopping and Entertainment
Overview:
AK Plaza is a large, family-friendly shopping mall located right next to Suwon Station. It offers a wide range of shopping options, from international brands to local Korean stores, as well as entertainment facilities like a cinema and a food court with kid-friendly options.

Activities for Families:

• Shopping: Explore clothing, toys, and accessories for kids and adults. There are also stores specializing in Korean cosmetics and souvenirs.
• Entertainment: The CGV cinema inside the mall often screens family-friendly movies, including animated films.
• Dining: The food court and restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, including Korean, Western, and Japanese, with kid-friendly meals available.

Costs:

• Shopping: Prices vary depending on the store, but you can find both affordable and high-end options.
• Cinema: Tickets cost around KRW 12,000–15,000 for adults and KRW 10,000–12,000 for children.
• Food: Meals in the food court range from KRW 7,000–15,000 per person.

How to Get There:

• By Subway: Take Line 1 to Suwon Station. AK Plaza is directly connected to the station.
• By Bus: Many local buses stop at Suwon Station. Check the Suwon bus system for routes.

Tips:

• Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.
• Look for seasonal sales, especially during summer and winter, for discounts on clothing and toys.
• If you’re visiting with a stroller, elevators and wide walkways make it easy to navigate.

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2. Suwon Myeongdong Street

Category: Shopping
Overview:
Suwon Myeongdong Street is a bustling shopping district filled with small boutiques, street food vendors, and entertainment options. It’s a great place for families to enjoy a lively atmosphere while shopping for unique items.

Activities for Families:

• Shopping: Find affordable clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. There are also stores selling Korean snacks and candies that kids will love.
• Street Food: Try local treats like hotteok (sweet pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and fish-shaped bread filled with red bean paste.
• Arcades: Some arcades in the area offer claw machines and simple games that kids can enjoy.

Costs:

• Shopping: Prices are generally affordable, with many items costing KRW 5,000–20,000.
• Street Food: Snacks range from KRW 1,000–5,000 per item.
• Arcade Games: KRW 500–1,000 per game.

How to Get There:

• By Subway: Take Line 1 to Suwon Station, then walk or take a short taxi ride to Myeongdong Street.
• By Bus: Local buses stop near the area; ask for directions to Myeongdong Street.

Tips:

• Bargaining is not common in Korea, but some vendors may offer discounts for bulk purchases.
• Visit in the evening for a more vibrant atmosphere and to enjoy the street food stalls.

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3. Lotte Mall Suwon

Category: Shopping and Entertainment
Overview:
Lotte Mall is another large shopping complex in Suwon, offering a mix of retail stores, a cinema, and a kids’ play area. It’s a one-stop destination for families looking to shop and relax.

Activities for Families:

• Shopping: Browse through a variety of stores, including Lotte Department Store, which features high-end brands and local products.
• Entertainment: The Lotte Cinema screens family-friendly movies, and the mall often hosts seasonal events like exhibitions or performances.
• Kids’ Play Area: Some sections of the mall have play zones for children, such as small indoor playgrounds or activity centers.

Costs:

• Shopping: Prices vary depending on the store.
• Cinema: Tickets cost around KRW 12,000–15,000 for adults and KRW 10,000–12,000 for children.
• Play Area: Entry fees for play zones range from KRW 5,000–10,000 per child.

How to Get There:

• By Subway: Take Line 1 to Suwon Station, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach Lotte Mall.
• By Bus: Many buses stop near Lotte Mall; check local routes.

Tips:

• Check the mall’s website or information desk for details on ongoing events or promotions.
• The mall has nursing rooms and family restrooms, making it convenient for parents with young children.

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4. Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Area (Traditional Market and Cultural Shops)

Category: Shopping and Cultural Entertainment
Overview:
The Suwon Hwaseong Fortress area combines history with shopping and entertainment. Families can explore traditional markets, cultural shops, and even participate in hands-on activities.

Activities for Families:

• Shopping: Visit the nearby Paldalmun Market for traditional Korean goods, snacks, and souvenirs.
• Cultural Entertainment: Some shops offer workshops where families can try making traditional crafts like hanji (Korean paper) or painting fans.
• Street Performances: During weekends or festivals, you may find traditional music or dance performances near the fortress.

Costs:

• Shopping: Items at the market are affordable, with prices ranging from KRW 1,000–20,000.
• Workshops: Fees for craft workshops range from KRW 5,000–15,000 per person.

How to Get There:

• By Subway: Take Line 1 to Suwon Station, then transfer to a local bus heading to Hwaseong Fortress or Paldalmun Gate.
• By Bus: Many buses stop near the fortress area.

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you may need to walk around the fortress area.
• Bring cash, as some market vendors may not accept credit cards.
• Check the schedule for cultural performances or workshops in advance.

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5. Galleria Department Store Suwon

Category: High-End Shopping and Entertainment
Overview:
For families looking for a more upscale shopping experience, the Galleria Department Store in Suwon offers luxury brands, gourmet food, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Activities for Families:

• Shopping: Explore high-end fashion, cosmetics, and accessories.
• Dining: The food court and restaurants offer premium dining options, including Korean and international cuisines.
• Cultural Events: The store occasionally hosts art exhibitions or cultural events that families can enjoy.

Costs:

• Shopping: Prices are on the higher end, as this is a luxury department store.
• Dining: Meals range from KRW 15,000–30,000 per person.

How to Get There:

• By Subway: Take Line 1 to Suwon Station, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach the Galleria Department Store.
• By Bus: Many buses stop near the department store.

Tips:

• Visit the gourmet food section for unique Korean snacks and desserts.
• Check for tax-free shopping options if you’re a tourist.

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Cultural Tips for Families in Suwon:

1. Language: While many staff in malls and department stores speak basic English, learning a few Korean phrases like “얼마예요?” (eolma-yeyo? - How much is it?) can be helpful.
2. Payment: Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry some cash for street markets or smaller vendors.
3. Strollers: Most malls and shopping areas are stroller-friendly, and some even offer stroller rentals.
4. Restrooms: Look for family restrooms in malls, which are equipped with changing tables and nursing areas.
5. Timing: Weekdays are less crowded, making it easier to navigate with children.

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Suwon offers a delightful mix of modern and traditional shopping and entertainment options, ensuring a memorable experience for families. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets or relaxing in a high-end mall, there’s something for everyone!