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Photo: 국가유산청, KOGL Type 1 via Wikimedia Commons
The burial mound of King Wonseong, 38th king of Silla, lies close to Bulguksa. In 780, Wonseong and his friend Kim Yangsang fought the rebel Kim Ji-jeong. As King Hyegong died in the rebellion, Kim Yangsang took over the throne as the King Seondeok. His successor was Wonseong in the year 785. In 787 he let his title be known to the Chinese emperor, through the sending of tributes. A tradition that would be followed by Korean kings for the next centuries. From 788 King Wonseong introduced the civil service examinations from the Chinese Tang dynasty. King Wonseong died in 798, and his grave is surrounded by a stone wall, with the edges comprising of 12 stones showing the complete Chinese zodiac. By the grave are stone columns, statues of academics (Muninseok), warriors (Muinseok) and lions (Dolsaja). The statues of the warriors appear to have the facial features of European or Arabian origin and wearing turbans. The four guarding lions are all facing the grave with large grins.
The Tomb of King Wonseong is believed to be the tomb of the Silla monarch Wonseong. It is located in what is now Gyeongju, South Korea. It is also known by the name Kwaerŭng. On January 21, 1963, it was made Historic Site of South Korea No. 26.
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불국사
A UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Buddhist art from the 8th century. In front of the main prayer hall stand two iconic stone pagodas: Dabotap (Pagoda of Many Treasures), known for its highly decorative carvings, and Seokgatap (Pagoda of Buddha), admired for its simple and dignified design. Note: Entrance fees have been abolished since May 2023. Look for the "hidden stone pig" under the roof of Geuknakjeon Hall, which is believed to bring good luck. A copy of Seokgatap can also be seen at the Gyeongju National Museum.
석굴암
A masterpiece of Silla Buddhist art, this grotto houses a majestic granite Buddha looking toward the East Sea. On the solstice, a ray of sun hits the Buddha's "third eye," a design meant to protect the kingdom. Although the Buddha is now behind a glass panel for preservation, the site offers spectacular views on clear days. Photography is strictly prohibited inside due to the sacred nature of the site. Entrance has been free since May 2023.
경주민속공예촌
A few replicas of the surrounding sights, some performances by artisans and several stores selling every imaginable type of souvenirs. In short: a tourist trap, that however is part of almost all tours and widely advertised.
경주국립공원/慶州國立公園
Either take a bus or taxi to get to the park. Once there, hiking trails lead up into the mountains. At first the signs are in both Korean and English but soon they become Korean only. Make sure you take a map or even better a Korean!
신라밀레니엄공원
Silla Millennium Park is a large theme park in Gyeongju dedicated to recreating the culture and history of the Silla Dynasty. The park features life-sized replicas of Silla palaces, traditional craft workshops, and live performances such as historical reenactments and martial arts shows. Visitors can explore cultural exhibits, enjoy family-friendly attractions, and experience interactive programs highlighting Silla’s rich heritage. The park has also served as a filming location for popular Korean dramas, making it a unique blend of entertainment and cultural education.
캘리포니아 비치 워터파크
California Beach is a large water park located in Gyeongju’s Bomun Tourist Complex. Inspired by California’s beaches, the park features wave pools, water slides, lazy rivers, and kid-friendly play zones. It is designed as a family-friendly summer destination and is connected to Gyeongju World amusement park, allowing visitors to enjoy both attractions. With seasonal events and various leisure facilities, California Beach is one of Gyeongju’s most popular summer spots.