The historic Cheomseongdae observatory in Gyeongju will showcase a stunning media art projection to commemorate the city's hosting of the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. The Korea Heritage Service announced Monday that the state-of-the-art light display will illuminate the facade of this ancient astronomical structure, which stands as one of Korea's most treasured historical landmarks.
The Cheomseongdae observatory, located in the southeastern city of Gyeongju, dates back to the mid-seventh century when it was constructed during the reign of Queen Seondeok of the Silla Kingdom, which existed from 57 B.C. to 935 A.D. This remarkable structure represents one of the world's oldest surviving astronomical observatories and demonstrates the advanced scientific knowledge of ancient Korean civilization.
The spectacular projection mapping display, which runs through November 1, has been carefully designed to highlight the rich cultural heritage and sophisticated astronomical understanding of the Silla Kingdom. The Korea Heritage Service explained that the show aims to showcase the kingdom's remarkable achievements in science and culture to international visitors attending the APEC summit.
The multimedia presentation will feature dynamic and captivating scenes that bring the observatory's historical purpose to life. Audiences will witness dramatic visualizations of ancient astronomers observing stars from atop Cheomseongdae, along with breathtaking celestial displays including a cascade of the Milky Way, meteor showers, and comets streaking across the night sky. The projection will also incorporate historical elements such as a celestial chart from the later Joseon Dynasty, which ruled Korea from 1392 to 1910, and artistic representations of the Four Guardian Deities from Korean mythology.
Beyond the main Cheomseongdae display, the Korea Heritage Service announced that several other significant historical sites throughout Gyeongju will receive special nighttime lighting treatments. Among these locations is the Guhwang-dong garden site, an important archaeological heritage location that provides valuable insights into the sophisticated garden culture and landscaping practices of the Silla ruling class.
A formal lighting ceremony for the Cheomseongdae display was scheduled to take place later on Monday, marking the official launch of this cultural celebration. The two-day APEC summit is set to begin on October 31, bringing together delegates from all 21 member economies of the Asia-Pacific region to discuss economic cooperation and regional development.
