Gyeongju Historic Areas: The Heart of Ancient Korea

• Hello안녕하세요
  [ahn-nyeong-ha-se-yo]
• Goodbye안녕히 가세요
  [ahn-nyeong-hee ga-se-yo]
• Yes네
  [ne]
• No아니요
  [a-ni-yo]
• Please/You're welcome부탁합니다/천만에요
  [bu-tak-ham-ni-da/cheon-man-e-yo]
• Thank you감사합니다
  [gam-sa-ham-ni-da]
• Excuse me/Sorry죄송합니다
  [joe-song-ham-ni-da]
• How are you?어떻게 지내세요?
  [eo-ddeoh-ke ji-nae-se-yo?]
• Fine. And you?잘 지내요. 당신은요?
  [jal ji-nae-yo. dang-shi-neun-yo?]
• Do you speak English?영어 할 수 있어요?
  [yeong-eo hal su iss-eo-yo?]
• I don't understand이해하지 못해요
  [i-hae-ha-ji mot-hae-yo]

• I'd like to see the menu, please메뉴를 보여주세요
  [me-nyu-reul bo-yeo-ju-se-yo]
• I don't eat meat고기를 먹지 않아요
  [go-gi-reul meok-ji anh-a-yo]
• Cheers!건배!
  [geon-bae!]
• I would like to pay, please결제하고 싶어요
  [gyeol-je-ha-go sip-eo-yo]

• Help!도와주세요!
  [do-wa-ju-se-yo!]
• Go away!사라져!
  [sa-ra-jyeo!]
• Call the Police!경찰을 불러주세요!
  [gyeong-chal-eul bul-leo-ju-se-yo!]
• Call a doctor!의사를 불러주세요!
  [ui-sa-reul bul-leo-ju-se-yo!]
• I'm lost길을 잃었어요
  [gil-eul ilh-eoss-eo-yo]
• I'm ill아파요
  [a-pa-yo]

• I'd like to buy......을(를) 사고 싶어요
  [...eul(reul) sa-go sip-eo-yo]
• I'm just looking그냥 둘러보고 있어요
  [geu-nyang dul-leo-bo-go iss-eo-yo]
• How much is it?얼마에요?
  [eol-ma-e-yo?]
• That's too expensive너무 비싸요
  [neo-mu bi-ssa-yo]
• Can you lower the price?가격을 깎을 수 있어요?
  [ga-geug-eul kka-keul su iss-eo-yo?]

• What time is it?지금 몇 시에요?
  [ji-geum myeot si-e-yo?]
• It's one o'clock한 시에요
  [han si-e-yo]
• Half past (10)열 시 반
  [yeol si ban]
• Morning아침
  [a-chim]
• Afternoon오후
  [o-hu]
• Evening저녁
  [jeo-nyeok]
• Yesterday어제
  [eo-je]
• Today오늘
  [o-neul]
• Tomorrow내일
  [nae-il]
• 1일
  [il]
• 2이
  [i]
• 3삼
  [sam]
• 4사
  [sa]
• 5오
  [o]
• 6육
  [yuk]
• 7칠
  [chil]
• 8팔
  [pal]
• 9구
  [gu]
• 10십
  [ship]

• Where's a/the...?...이 어디에 있어요?
  [...i eo-di-e iss-eo-yo?]
• What's the address?주소가 뭐에요?
  [ju-so-ga mwo-e-yo?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?지도로 보여주세요
  [ji-do-ro bo-yeo-ju-se-yo]
• When's the next (bus)?다음 버스는 언제에요?
  [da-eum beo-seu-neun eon-je-e-yo?]
• A ticket (to ....)표 하나 주세요 (...로)
  [pyo ha-na ju-se-yo (...ro)]

Gyeongju, known as 'Seorabeol' during ancient times, served as the capital of the Silla Kingdom from 57 BCE to 935 CE. The Silla Dynasty is recognized for unifying the Korean Peninsula, and Gyeongju was the political, economic, and cultural center of the kingdom. The city’s historical significance is evident in its numerous ancient sites, including royal tombs, palaces, and temples.

Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in South Korea. Constructed during the Silla Dynasty in 774 CE, it embodies the architectural excellence and spiritual devotion of the period. The temple complex includes Dabotap and Seokgatap pagodas, which are considered masterpieces of Buddhist art.

Seokguram Grotto, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is a hermitage and part of the Bulguksa temple complex. Built in the 8th century, it houses a monumental statue of the Buddha, surrounded by bodhisattvas and guardians. The grotto is a testament to the advanced engineering and artistic skills of the Silla people.

Cheomseongdae is the oldest existing astronomical observatory in Asia, constructed during the reign of Queen Seondeok (632-647 CE). The 9.17-meter high stone structure was used for stargazing and signifies the advanced scientific understanding of the Silla Dynasty. The observatory's design, featuring 365 stones, is believed to represent the days of the year.

Anapji Pond, also known as Wolji, was built in 674 CE by King Munmu to commemorate the unification of the Korean Peninsula under Silla. The artificial pond, surrounded by pavilions and gardens, served as a royal leisure site. Recent excavations have uncovered numerous artifacts, offering insights into the royal lifestyle and culture of the time.

The Royal Tombs of Gyeongju, scattered across the city, are burial mounds of Silla kings and nobility. These tombs, such as the Cheonmachong and Hwangnamdaechong, contain valuable relics, including gold crowns, pottery, and weaponry. The tombs provide a glimpse into the burial customs and material wealth of the Silla elite.

The Gyeongju National Museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Silla Dynasty, including gold jewelry, pottery, and stone sculptures. The museum's exhibits offer comprehensive insights into the history, culture, and artistic achievements of ancient Gyeongju, making it an essential stop for understanding the city’s historical significance.

Namsan Mountain, often referred to as a 'museum without walls,' is dotted with ancient relics, including Buddha statues, pagodas, and temple ruins. It was a sacred site during the Silla period, and its numerous archaeological treasures reflect the spiritual and cultural heritage of the era. Namsan's trails offer both hiking opportunities and historical exploration.

Gyeongju Historic Areas are located in Gyeongsangbuk-do province in South Korea. The nearest international airports are Gimhae International Airport in Busan and Incheon International Airport in Seoul. From Busan, you can take a KTX (Korea Train Express) to Singyeongju Station, which takes about 30 minutes. From Seoul, the KTX takes approximately 2 hours to reach Singyeongju Station. Buses and taxis are available from the station to various historic sites.

Gyeongju is well-connected by public transportation. Local buses are frequent and cover most tourist spots. Taxis are also readily available and can be a convenient option, especially if you're traveling in a group. For a more flexible itinerary, consider renting a bicycle or car. Gyeongju's bike rental services offer a great way to explore the city's historic sites at your own pace.

The official currency of South Korea is the Korean Won (KRW). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Gyeongju. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, local markets, and street vendors. ATMs are plentiful, especially in tourist areas, but ensure your card is compatible with South Korean banking systems.

Gyeongju is generally a safe destination for tourists. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always recommended. At night, stick to well-lit and populated areas.

In case of an emergency, dial 119 for medical or fire emergencies and 112 for police assistance. Most operators speak basic English. The local police station and hospitals are well-equipped to handle emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues, and many staff members can assist in English.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting temples, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t talk loudly or make phone calls on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a slight bow or a handshake. A smile and a polite 'Annyeong haseyo' (Hello) go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and be gracious when offered food. Don’t leave chopsticks sticking upright in a bowl of rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual.

To experience Gyeongju like a local, visit the traditional markets such as Gyeongju Jungang Market, where you can buy fresh produce and local snacks. Participate in a tea ceremony or take a pottery class to understand the local culture better. Engaging with locals can provide unique insights into the city's history and traditions. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit lesser-known sites like the Oreung Royal Tombs and the Gyeongju Hyanggyo Confucian School.