Wirye-dong

Whispers of ancient Baekje royalty still echo through the modern cityscape of Wirye-dong. Here, amidst the bustling streets and high-rise apartments, lie the remnants of Wiryeseong, the ancient capital of the Baekje kingdom. Wirye-dong, a name that carries the weight of centuries, was once the heart of a powerful kingdom, a place of strategic importance and royal intrigue. In 18 AD, King Onjo, the founder of Baekje, chose this very spot, then known as Wiryeseong or Hanseong, to establish his capital. Imagine the bustling activity of an ancient capital. Picture the imposing walls of the fortress, a symbol of Baekje power. Sadly, much of the original Wiryeseong has been lost to time, buried beneath the layers of modern development. However, the echoes of its existence remain, woven into the fabric of Wirye-dong. The Wirye New Town development project, while mired in controversy, unintentionally brought the area’s historical significance back into focus. The project, spanning Songpa and Sujeong districts, has been dubbed “the prequel of Daejang-dong,” another controversial development. This comparison highlights the complex interplay between history, progress, and politics that shapes the landscape of modern Seoul. While the controversies surrounding recent developments have cast a shadow over Wirye-dong, they also serve as a reminder of its enduring importance. This is not just another Seoul neighborhood. It is a place where the whispers of ancient kings mingle with the sounds of a modern metropolis, a place where the past and present are inextricably linked. As you stand here, in the heart of Wirye-dong, take a moment to appreciate the layers of history beneath your feet. From the ancient capital of Baekje to the modern cityscape of Seoul, Wirye-dong continues to evolve, carrying its rich and complex legacy into the future.