Goyang is a large planned city northwest of Seoul, built around the new town of Ilsan, known for its lake park, convention center, and role in a decisive 16th-century battle for the capital.
History
Goyang's most famous historical moment is the Battle of Haengju, fought on March 14, 1593, when Korean general Gwon Yul and roughly 2,300 defenders held Haengju Fortress on the Han River against some 30,000 attacking Japanese troops during the Imjin War — a victory still ranked among Korea's three most decisive of that war and commemorated with a memorial at the fortress site. Goyang's modern shape dates to the late 1980s and 1990s, when the government built Ilsan as one of five new satellite cities around Seoul to relieve housing pressure and curb land speculation; the planned district, along with the older Deogyang area, was consolidated into present-day Goyang city in 1992.
Highlights
- Ilsan Lake Park, opened in 1996 around what's described as one of Asia's largest artificial lakes, with cycling and walking paths, gardens, and Dalmaji Island.
- KINTEX, Korea's largest convention and exhibition center, opened in 2005 and expanded in 2011, host to the Seoul Motor Show and other major trade events.
- Haengju Fortress (Haengjusanseong), the hilltop fortress site of the 1593 battle, with a memorial to General Gwon Yul and river views.
- Aram Nuri Arts Center, a performing arts complex in Ilsan hosting concerts, opera, and theater.
Annual events
- Goyang International Flower Festival (early April) — held around Ilsan Lake Park, one of the region's larger flower festivals, with an expanded international expo held periodically.
- Great Battle of Haengju Festival (around March 14) — commemorates the 1593 victory at Haengju Fortress.
Getting there
Goyang is well connected to Seoul by subway: Line 3 runs directly into Ilsan with stops from Jichuk to Daehwa, and the Gyeongui-Jungang Line also serves the area with commuter rail. The trip from central Seoul typically takes 30 to 45 minutes.
How long
Goyang works well as a half- or full-day trip from Seoul — Ilsan Lake Park, KINTEX, and Haengju Fortress can each be covered in a couple of hours — and its subway access makes an overnight stay unnecessary for most visitors.