Historic Korean Fortress Lights Up for Media Art Festival in Suwon in South Korea

A historic fortress in Suwon, South Korea, is providing the backdrop for an evening of light, digital imagery and live performance. The 2026 Suwon Hwaseong Media Art Festival opened on September 19 and runs through October 6, bringing contemporary visual storytelling to one of the country’s best-known heritage sites.

Located south of Seoul, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress was built in the late 18th century during the reign of King Jeongjo of the Joseon dynasty, which ruled Korea from 1392 to 1910. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its stone walls, imposing gateways and defensive structures offer visitors a setting in which to explore Korea’s architectural history.

Hosted by Suwon City and organized by the Suwon Cultural Foundation, the festival takes place around Hwaseomun Gate, Janganmun Gate and Jangan Park, daily from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. This year’s theme, “Saebit Dongnak: Suwon Hwaseong, Blooming in Light,” connects the fortress’s history with the lives of people who have shaped the city.

At Hwaseomun, the fortress’s western gate, the main production, “Light of Connection,” draws on the celebrations and hospitality surrounding King Jeongjo’s royal procession in 1795. Digital imagery is combined with traditional Korean dance, ballet and sangmo, a performance in which dancers spin long ribbons attached to their hats. The approximately 35-minute show runs at 7:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Janganmun, the fortress’s northern gate, hosts “The King’s Path, Together.” The production uses the curved defensive enclosure outside the gate to create a 360-degree immersive experience. Video, lighting, sound and special effects highlight the Joseon-era architecture while depicting the king’s procession and the people who accompanied it. Each presentation lasts approximately 15 minutes, with screenings every half-hour from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Nearby Jangan Park offers installations that invite visitors to take part. A voice-responsive artwork allows participants to set digital lanterns afloat, while illuminated sculptures react to touch and movement. A garden of glowing flowers and butterflies, street performances and markets featuring local merchants round out the programme.

General admission is free. Special seating at Hwaseomun is subject to a charge on weekends, public holidays and days preceding holiday periods. The “Bitdam Hwaseong” guided tour, which combines commentary on the historic site with a tour of the festival, is available for an additional fee.