To mark the 230th completion anniversary of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, the Suwon Hwaseong Museum is hosting a special exhibition titled "A Millennial Legacy Built with the People, Suwon Hwaseong" from September 30 to December 13 at its Special Exhibition Hall.

This exhibition sheds light on the process and significance of King Jeongjo and the common people joining forces to construct the fortress, as well as the ongoing inheritance of its historical value through related artifacts and records. This year marks the 230th anniversary of the fortress's completion and the 250th anniversary of King Jeongjo’s ascension to the throne, while 2027 will mark the 30th anniversary of Suwon Hwaseong's inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The exhibition is organized into four thematic sections:

-From King Jeongjo’s Planning to Completion: Tracing the journey from the king's vision—mindful of the hardships faced by the people—to the realization of the fortress.
-Contributors to the Construction: Highlighting the countless officials and artisans who participated.
-Consolation, Encouragement, and Shared Celebration: Featuring the Nakseongyeon (completion banquet) held to celebrate the monumental finish.
-Successors to a Great Achievement: Exploring the efforts to preserve and pass down the value of Suwon Hwaseong to the present day.

Key artifacts on display include:

-A 1794 Royal Edict (Yuneum) ordering the temporary suspension of construction to relieve citizens suffering from famine.
-A rubbing of the original signboard for Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion, written by Cho Yun-hyung, which is being unveiled to the public for the first time. (On loan from Pyeongyeongjae, this piece showcases the calligraphy of the renowned late-Joseon master who also wrote the signboards for Janganmun and Paldalmun Gates).
-Hwaseong Seongyeok Uigwe (The Protocols of Hwaseong Fortress Construction): Designated as a National Treasure and a UNESCO Memory of the World.
-Portrait of Chae Je-gong: State Minister and General Overseer of the Hwaseong Fortress Construction Office (a National Treasure).

In addition, an immersive digital video titled "Hold a Feast for Everyone to Enjoy Together! — Nakseongyeon" recreates the historic completion banquet based on period records and museum models. Accompanying academic conferences and special lectures are also scheduled for October and November.

The exhibition is open to the public at the Suwon Hwaseong Museum's Special Exhibition Hall. Please note that the museum is closed every Monday.

A representative from the Suwon Hwaseong Museum stated, "Suwon Hwaseong is a precious cultural heritage created through the vision of King Jeongjo and the sweat and dedication of the people. We hope this exhibition serves as an opportunity to reflect on the spirit of Yeomindongrak (sharing joy with the people) embedded in its construction and the enduring value of Suwon Hwaseong today."

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]