The ancient city of Gyeongju, which served as the capital of the Silla Kingdom for nearly a thousand years, is preparing to welcome international visitors for the APEC 2025 summit. The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has launched a comprehensive campaign to showcase the city's unique blend of historical heritage, natural beauty, and modern attractions, positioning Gyeongju as a world-class destination that seamlessly merges its deep-rooted traditions with contemporary culture.
Under the promotional slogan "New Heritage Gyeongju," the KTO has identified three distinct themes that capture the city's evolving identity: time, nature, and experience. This strategic approach highlights how Gyeongju has transformed from a purely historical destination into a multifaceted city that appeals to diverse types of travelers while maintaining its cultural authenticity.
The OAR Contemporary Art Museum stands as a prime example of how modern architecture can complement ancient surroundings. Designed by renowned architect Yoo Hyun-joon and strategically located near the ancient tombs in Noseo-ri, Gyeongju, this minimalist structure has become a cultural landmark in its own right. The museum's thoughtful design philosophy has proven successful, attracting an impressive 180,000 visitors within just six months of its opening, demonstrating the public's appreciation for innovative approaches to cultural preservation.
Another emerging attraction that exemplifies Gyeongju's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modernity is the Hwango-dong area behind Gyeongju Station. This neighborhood has undergone a remarkable transformation, with century-old traditional houses being carefully converted into trendy cafes and boutique shops. A standout example is Bowhasa, which operates out of a former stationmaster's residence that has been meticulously preserved in its original wooden form, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Korea's architectural past while providing modern amenities.
The Gyeongju National Museum has also embraced this philosophy of blending old and new through its "Treasury of the Silla Millennium" exhibition space. This innovative area offers visitors a modern reinterpretation of traditional Korean architecture, creating a unique environment where guests can relax, read, and reflect while being surrounded by thousands of years of cultural heritage. This approach makes historical artifacts more accessible and engaging for contemporary audiences.
Beyond its renowned temples and ancient tombs, Gyeongju offers visitors numerous opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy peaceful outdoor experiences. The Geumjangdae Wetland Park, conveniently located just 10 minutes from downtown, serves as an ecological sanctuary featuring well-maintained walking trails and designated boat photo zones that allow visitors to capture memorable moments in a natural setting.
The Hwarang Hill viewpoint within the wetland park has become particularly popular among photographers and nature enthusiasts. This elevated location features expansive open meadows and a distinctive meditation rock formation that provides sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The combination of natural beauty and spiritual significance makes this site especially appealing to visitors seeking both scenic photo opportunities and moments of quiet contemplation.
To the east of the city, the columnar joint formations in Yangnam, Gyeongju, showcase the region's remarkable geological diversity. These natural monuments feature striking hexagonal rock formations that reveal Gyeongju's lesser-known coastal beauty, offering visitors a different perspective on the area's natural attractions beyond its more famous inland sites.
For autumn travelers, the Dori Village Ginkgo Forest represents a hidden gem that perfectly captures the seasonal beauty of the Korean countryside. This location offers visitors rustic charm and spectacular golden foliage during the fall months, providing an intimate and peaceful alternative to the city's more crowded tourist destinations.
Gyeongju also caters effectively to adventure seekers and families looking for active entertainment options. Gyeongju World, the region's largest amusement park, features an impressive array of thrilling roller coasters including Phaethon and Draken. The park recently celebrated its 40th anniversary by launching the new Time Rider, an innovative swinging Ferris wheel that adds a fresh dimension to the park's attractions and continues to draw visitors from across the country.
Additional adventure activities include Gyeongju Luge World, which offers visitors an exciting downhill racing experience while enjoying panoramic views of the picturesque Bomun Lake. For those seeking indoor entertainment options, Wonder Space Bomun provides a comprehensive indoor playground packed with modern arcade games and various sports attractions, ensuring that visitors have engaging options regardless of weather conditions.
A KTO official emphasized the strategic importance of this comprehensive tourism campaign, stating, "As global attention turns to Gyeongju for APEC 2025, we wanted to reintroduce the city through the traveler's lens. We hope its three charms continue to draw both domestic and international visitors." This initiative represents a significant effort to position Gyeongju as a destination that offers something meaningful for every type of traveler, from history enthusiasts and nature lovers to adventure seekers and cultural explorers.
