Historical Charm of Hwangnam-dong: The Heart of Gyeongju

• Hello안녕하세요
  [annyeonghaseyo]
• Goodbye안녕히 가세요
  [annyeonghi gaseyo]
• Yes네
  [ne]
• No아니요
  [aniyo]
• Please/You're welcome부탁합니다
  [butakhamnida]
• Thank you감사합니다
  [gamsahamnida]
• Excuse me/Sorry죄송합니다
  [joesonghamnida]
• How are you?어떻게 지내세요?
  [eotteoke jinaeseyo?]
• Fine. And you?잘 지내고요. 여러분은요?
  [jal jinaegoyo. yeoreobun-eunyo?]
• Do you speak English?영어 할 수 있어요?
  [yeong-eo hal su iss-eoyo?]
• I don't understand이해 못 해요
  [ihae mot haeyo]

• I'd like to see the menu, please메뉴를 보고 싶어요, 부탁합니다
  [menyuleul bogo sip-eoyo, butakhamnida]
• I don't eat meat고기를 먹지 않아요
  [gogileul meogji anh-ayo]
• Cheers!건배!
  [geonbae!]
• I would like to pay, please계산할게요, 부탁합니다
  [gyesanhalkkeyo, butakhamnida]

• Help!도와주세요!
  [dowajuseyo!]
• Go away!저리 가!
  [jeoli ga!]
• Call the Police!경찰을 불러주세요!
  [gyeongchal-eul bulleojuseyo!]
• Call a doctor!의사를 부르세요!
  [uisaleul buleuseyo!]
• I'm lost길을 잃었어요
  [gileul ilh-eoss-eoyo]
• I'm ill아파요
  [apayo]

• I'd like to buy...사고 싶어요...
  [sago sip-eoyo...]
• I'm just looking보고만 있어요
  [bogoman iss-eoyo]
• How much is it?얼마에요?
  [eolma-eyo?]
• That's too expensive너무 비싸요
  [neomu bissayo]
• Can you lower the price?가격을 깎아 주실 수 있나요?
  [gageog-eul kkaj-a jusil su issnayo?]

• What time is it?지금 몇 시에요?
  [jigeum myeoch si-eyo?]
• It's one o'clock한 시에요
  [han si-eyo]
• Half past (10)열 시 반
  [yeol si ban]
• Morning아침
  [achim]
• Afternoon오후
  [ohu]
• Evening저녁
  [jeonyeok]
• Yesterday어제
  [eoje]
• Today오늘
  [oneul]
• Tomorrow내일
  [naeil]
• 1하나
  [hana]
• 2둘
  [dul]
• 3셋
  [set]
• 4넷
  [net]
• 5다섯
  [daseot]
• 6여섯
  [yeoseot]
• 7일곱
  [ilgob]
• 8여덟
  [yeodeol]
• 9아홉
  [ahob]
• 10열
  [yeol]

• Where's a/the...?...이 어디에 있어요?
  [...i eodie iss-eoyo?]
• What's the address?주소가 뭐에요?
  [jusoga mwo-eyo?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?지도로 보여주세요?
  [jidolo boyeojuseyo?]
• When's the next (bus)?다음 버스는 언제와요?
  [daeum beoseuneun eonjewayo?]
• A ticket (to ....)표 하나 주세요 (....으로)
  [pyo hana juseyo (....euro)]

Hwangnam-dong, located in Gyeongju, is steeped in the rich history of the Silla Dynasty, which ruled from 57 BC to 935 AD. This neighborhood was part of the ancient capital of Gyeongju, where significant cultural and political activities took place. The area is well-known for its proximity to important historical sites, including the famous Tumuli Park, where royal tombs of Silla kings and queens are found.

The royal tombs in Hwangnam-dong are among the most significant archaeological sites in South Korea. The tombs, which date back to the 5th to 6th centuries, showcase the burial practices and burial goods of the Silla elite. The artifacts recovered from these tombs, including gold crowns, pottery, and weapons, provide invaluable insights into the culture, art, and socio-political structure of the Silla Kingdom.

Hwangnam-dong also reflects the deep-rooted influence of Buddhism in the Silla period. The neighborhood is home to several historical Buddhist sites, including the remnants of ancient temples. The construction of the famous Seokguram Grotto and the nearby Bulguksa Temple, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, demonstrate the architectural and artistic achievements of this era, emphasizing the importance of Buddhism in shaping the cultural identity of Gyeongju.

In contemporary times, Hwangnam-dong has seen efforts to preserve its historical sites while accommodating modern development. The neighborhood serves as a gateway for tourists exploring the ancient city of Gyeongju, offering a blend of historical exploration and modern amenities. Recent initiatives focus on promoting cultural heritage tourism, ensuring that the legacy of the Silla Dynasty continues to be celebrated and understood.

Hwangnam-dong is not only rich in history but also in culinary traditions. The neighborhood is famous for its traditional snacks, such as Hwangnam bread, a type of red bean pastry that has become a symbol of the area. The local markets and eateries showcase the diverse flavors of Gyeongju, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage and the importance of community in culinary practices.

Hwangnam-dong is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Gyeongju. If you are coming from Gyeongju Station, you can take a local bus or a taxi, which typically takes around 10-15 minutes. Buses such as the 10, 11, and 12 routes connect Gyeongju Station directly to Hwangnam-dong. From the Gyeongju Intercity Bus Terminal, buses to Hwangnam-dong are also available and take about 20 minutes.

Hwangnam-dong is well-connected by public transport, including local buses that frequently run through the area. Bicycles can be rented at various locations, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the neighborhood's historical sites. Walking is highly recommended as many attractions are within a short distance of each other, providing a chance to experience the local atmosphere.

Hwangnam-dong is generally a safe area for tourists. However, like in any urban setting, it’s important to remain vigilant. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is advisable to avoid poorly lit streets at night and keep valuables secure. Petty theft can occur in crowded tourist spots, so stay aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police assistance and 119 for fire and medical emergencies. Local hospitals and clinics are equipped to handle various medical situations. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter needs, and many staff can assist English-speaking customers.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable, respectful clothing, especially when visiting temples. Don’t wear revealing outfits. Religion: Do show respect at religious sites; cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do yield your seat to the elderly. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals politely, often with a bow. Eating & Drinking: Do try traditional Korean dishes and accept food offerings. Don’t waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Hwangnam-dong like a local, visit the traditional markets for fresh produce and local snacks. Engage with local vendors, who are often eager to share stories about their products. Don't miss the chance to try Gyeongju bread (Hwangnam-ppang), a local delicacy. Consider visiting the nearby historical sites at sunrise or sunset for fewer crowds and a more magical atmosphere.