Gyeongju, Host of APEC, Invites Visitors to Experience the Allure of Time, Nature, and Activities

One of the hottest destinations in the tourism industry these days is Gyeongju, where the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit will be held from October 31 to November 1. The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has recommended and introduced popular travel spots in Gyeongju in line with the APEC event. This 'new Gyeongju' can be enjoyed through three themes: time, nature, and experiences.

■ Gyeongju National Museum & OAR: Bridging Time
Gyeongju, a city that preserves a thousand years of history, is home to many new places that blend tradition with the sensibilities of the younger generation. This is what is now called 'New Heritage Gyeongju.'
Among these spots, the OAR Contemporary Art Museum, facing the Noseo-dong Ancient Tombs, is currently one of the most popular. In just six months since its opening, it has attracted 180,000 visitors. The museum offers a unique coexistence of ancient tombs and contemporary art. Notably, the space was designed by architect Hyunjoon Yoo, who breathed new life into it by discarding flashy, attention-grabbing designs in favor of a simple concept that highlights the tombs as the main feature. OAR stands for 'Today's Encounter with Beauty.' While it does not display works by famous artists like Pablo Picasso or Claude Monet, it presents exhibitions that are uniquely representative of Gyeongju.
Gyeongju National Museum, considered a must-visit in Gyeongju, should not be missed. If you visit, be sure to check out the Silla Millennium Library. This 'library within a museum' allows visitors to browse the museum's collection of books. Housed in a remodeled hanok that was once used as a storage facility, the library features a modern design that catches the eye. Many people are drawn to the space for its so-called 'lying-down reading,' where you can relax on a sofa or even lie down while reading.

■ Capture Your Best Moments at Hwarang Hill!
In addition to famous attractions like Cheomseongdae and Hwangnidan Street, Gyeongju offers many places to enjoy nature. One such spot is Geumjangdae Wetland Park, located just ten minutes from downtown Gyeongju. With a river separating two distinct atmospheres, visitors can take a leisurely stroll and capture memorable photos with the wetlands as a backdrop.
Hwarang Hill, one of Gyeongju's hidden scenic gems, is filled with perfect spots for taking memorable photos. On the vast plateau, you'll find swings, pianos, stairs, and other photo zones, but the highlight is Meditation Rock, which offers stunning panoramic views. Sit on the rock to enjoy picturesque scenery where mountains, rice fields, and villages blend together, and take photos worthy of a magazine spread.
Surprisingly, some people are unaware that Gyeongju is a coastal city facing the East Sea. Head east from Gyeongju to discover the breathtaking Yangnam Jusangjeolli Cliff, a natural monument that stretches out over the sea. The area features columnar joints in various shapes, with the fan-shaped formations being especially famous. For visitors, a 35-meter-high observatory and a 1.7-kilometer trail have been created for optimal viewing.

■ Thrilling Activities in Gyeongju
Gyeongju is not only rich in historical sites but also offers plenty of activities for the whole family. The top destination is Gyeongju World, the largest theme park in the Yeongnam region since its opening in 1985. The park is especially popular for its variety of roller coasters. Attractions like 'Phaethon,' a floorless roller coaster, the vertical drop ride 'Draken,' and the backward roller coaster 'Valkyrie' are favorites among younger visitors.
Other popular spots include Gyeongju Luge World and the indoor playground Gyeongju Wonder Space Bomun Branch. At Gyeongju Luge World, visitors can enjoy thrilling rides with panoramic views of Bomun Lake. Wonder Space, a five-story indoor amusement park, offers unlimited access to a variety of arcade games, indoor sports, and laser survival games with just one admission ticket.
Additionally, outdoor escape room games set against the backdrop of Gyeongju's historical sites are gaining popularity. Unique experiences such as 'Muroreumdal Yeoldatsae' at Gyeongju Eupseong Fortress and Hwangnidan Street, and 'The Secret of Hwanggeumja' at Daereungwon Tomb Complex and Cheomseongdae, allow visitors to enjoy both travel and games. Becoming a time traveler and solving missions while exploring Gyeongju's key heritage sites offers a whole new way to experience the city.
jsm64@fnnews.com Jung Soon-min Reporter