Wonju history

The history of the city of Wonju dates back to ancient times. Initially, these lands were part of the Samhan tribal confederacy, and later became part of the powerful kingdom of Goguryeo. The first significant administrative entity appeared here in 469 AD, when Pyeongwon County (Pyeongwongun) was founded. The city received its modern name much later, in 940 AD, when King Taejo, the founder of the Goryeo Dynasty, renamed the county to Wonju.

The rise of Wonju as an important centre was driven by its strategic location in the very heart of the Korean Peninsula. The city lies in a valley surrounded by the picturesque slopes of the Taebaeksan Mountains and within the basin of the Seomgang and Namhangang rivers. Such a geographical position facilitated its development as a transport and administrative hub. Throughout its history, Wonju even served as the capital of Gangwon Province, which underscores its political significance in the region.

Since ancient times, Wonju has been renowned for its traditions of craftsmanship. The city is known as the home of the famous traditional Korean handmade paper — Hanji. This craft, alongside agriculture, formed the basis of its early economy. The city's cultural heritage is also rich: its surroundings preserve numerous ancient monuments, including temples and the remains of fortress structures, testifying to its long and eventful history.

Ancient History and the Three Kingdoms Period

• 469 AD — Pyeongwon County (Pyeongwongun) is founded on the territory of modern Wonju during the reign of King Jangsu of the Goguryeo Dynasty.
• 678 AD — During the Unified Silla period, the city was reorganised into a secondary capital and named Bugwon-seogyeong.

Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties

• 940 AD — The founder of the Goryeo Dynasty, King Taejo, renames the city Wonju, a name that remains to this day.
• 1308 AD — Wonju receives the status of "mok", becoming an important administrative centre of the region.
• 1395 AD — The city becomes the capital of the newly formed Gangwon Province, the name of which was composed of the first syllables of the cities Gangneung and Wonju.
• 1896 AD — During administrative reforms, the capital of Gangwon Province is moved from Wonju to Chuncheon.

Modern and Contemporary History

• 1938 — The settlement receives the status of a town (eup).
• 1950–1951 — Wonju becomes the scene of fierce fighting during the Korean War, known as the First and Second Battles of Wonju.
• 1 September 1955 — Wonju officially receives the status of a city (si).
• 1984 — Mount Chiaksan, located to the east of the city, receives the status of a national park, becoming a centre of attraction for tourists.
• 1 January 1995 — The city of Wonju and the surrounding county of the same name are merged into a single administrative unit.

Key Stages of City Development

The modern appearance of Wonju has been shaped by a series of targeted transformations that have turned it into a dynamic economic and cultural centre. Below are the main milestones of its development.

• Becoming a Medical Industry Hub. Starting in the late 1990s, Wonju focused on innovation in the healthcare sector. A key step was the establishment of the Wonju Medical Industry Technovalley in 2003. This transformed the city into South Korea's leading cluster for the development and production of medical equipment, attracting investment and highly qualified specialists.
• "Innovation City" Project. As part of a national programme for balanced regional development, Wonju was selected to host several major government institutions relocating from Seoul. This project, which began in the 2000s, facilitated the creation of thousands of new jobs, the construction of modern residential and commercial infrastructure, and attracted a new population to the city.
• Modernisation of Transport Infrastructure. Thanks to its central location, Wonju has always been an important transport hub. In recent history, its role has been strengthened by the construction of expressways and the launch of high-speed trains (KTX). This has reduced travel time to Seoul to approximately one hour and strengthened its economic ties with other regions of the country.
• Recognition as a UNESCO City of Literature. In 2019, Wonju received prestigious international status by joining the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. This recognition was based on the city's rich literary heritage, particularly associated with the renowned writer Park Kyong-ni. This status promotes the development of cultural tourism and strengthens the city's image on the world stage.
• Post-War Recovery and Economic Diversification. After devastating battles during the Korean War, the city underwent massive reconstruction. From a predominantly military and agrarian centre, Wonju transformed into a city with a diversified economy, where high technologies and the service sector actively develop alongside traditional industries.
• Administrative Consolidation. Having received official city status (si) in 1955, Wonju continued to grow. An important stage was the merger of the city and the adjacent county in 1995 into a single administrative unit. This allowed for more effective urban planning policies and the comprehensive development of the vast territory.

The architectural appearance of Wonju represents a harmonious combination of centuries-old traditional Korean heritage and bold modern urban planning solutions. Historically, the city developed as an administrative and cultural centre, which is reflected in its built environment.

Traditional Architecture

The historic buildings of Wonju, like those of many Korean cities, suffered greatly in the 20th century. However, outstanding examples of traditional Korean architecture, mainly of religious significance, have been preserved in its surroundings. Characterised by wooden structures, elegantly curved tiled roofs, and a desire for harmony with the surrounding landscape, the brightest examples are Buddhist temples located in Chiaksan National Park, such as Guryongsa Temple, founded back in the Silla era. These complexes demonstrate the classic principles of temple architecture: pagodas, main prayer halls, and monks' quarters, organically integrated into the mountainous terrain.

Post-War Recovery and Modernism

After the Korean War (1950–1953), the city was largely destroyed and required large-scale reconstruction. During this period, functional architecture characteristic of the mid-20th century prevailed. The main task was the rapid construction of residential and administrative buildings, so less attention was paid to aesthetics than to practicality. This stage laid the foundation for the modern layout of the city's central districts.

Contemporary Urban Planning and Iconic Landmarks

Since the end of the 20th century, Wonju has experienced rapid development linked to government programmes for decentralisation and the creation of innovation clusters. This has led to the emergence of entire districts with modern architecture:

• Wonju Innovation City: A large-scale project featuring modern office buildings for government institutions that moved from the capital, as well as comfortable residential complexes, schools, and parks. The architecture here is distinguished by the use of glass, concrete, and metal, high-rise structures, and well-thought-out infrastructure.
• Museum SAN (Space, Art, Nature): A true gem of contemporary architecture located in the outskirts of Wonju. Designed by the world-renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando, a Pritzker Prize laureate, the museum is an example of minimalism and masterful work with light, concrete, and nature. The complex, which includes exhibition halls, water gardens, and stone gardens, is perfectly integrated into the mountain landscape and has become a point of attraction for art and architecture connoisseurs from around the world.
• Park Kyong-ni Literary Park: A cultural complex was created in honour of the famous Korean writer whose home was in Wonju. It includes her restored house, a literary museum, and a theme park. The architecture of these objects combines traditional motifs and modern elements, creating a peaceful atmosphere for immersing oneself in the world of literature.

Notable Figures Associated with Wonju

The city of Wonju and its surroundings have been the birthplace or place of activity for many iconic figures in the history and culture of South Korea. Below is a list of some of them.

• Choi Kyu-hah (1919–2006)
  Politician, 4th President of the Republic of Korea.
  A native of Wonju, Choi Kyu-hah served as the country's president during the transitional period from 1979 to 1980 following the assassination of Park Chung-hee. Prior to this, he was Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, playing an important role in South Korea's foreign policy.
• Park Kyong-ni (1926–2008)
  Writer.
  One of the most revered writers of 20th-century Korea. Although she was not born in Wonju, she spent the final years of her life here, where she completed her monumental epic novel "Toji" (The Land). A Literary Park was created in the city in her honour, and Wonju received the status of a UNESCO City of Literature largely thanks to her legacy.
• Ungok Won Cheon-seok (1330–?)
  Scholar and poet of the Goryeo-Joseon period.
  He came from the influential Wonju Won clan. After the fall of the Goryeo Dynasty, he refused to serve the new Joseon Dynasty and retreated as a hermit to the Chiaksan mountains near Wonju. He is known as a mentor to future kings and the author of works reflecting loyalty to old ideals.
• Won Gyun (1540–1597)
  Military commander, Admiral of the Joseon Dynasty.
  A representative of the Wonju Won clan, Won Gyun was one of the key naval commanders during the Imjin War against the Japanese invasions. Despite a controversial reputation in history, he is a significant military figure originating from this region.
• Jang Mi-ran (born 1983)
  Weightlifter, Olympic Champion.
  Born in Wonju, Jang Mi-ran is one of the most titled athletes in the history of South Korean weightlifting. She is a gold medallist at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, a four-time world champion, and a true legend in her sport.
• Kim Heechul (born 1983)
  Singer, actor, and TV presenter.
  Although born in the neighbouring county of Hoengseong, Kim Heechul grew up and studied in Wonju. As a member of the world-famous K-pop group Super Junior, he is one of the most recognisable modern celebrities associated with the region.