Gyeongju — Hidden South Korean Gem
Gyeongju, often called the “museum without walls,” is a captivating South Korean city steeped in history and culture, but more recently has undergone an exciting transformation: Technology and an emerging generation of movers and shakers have blended the city’s long-standing traditional elements with modern-day aesthetics and trends to become a popular city for the young and hip.
This city of 250,000, 2 hours south of Seoul by train, was originally the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, and boasting numerous well-preserved UNESCO Word Heritage historical sites, ancient temples, tombs, and palaces.
Gyeongju offers four sessons and a more relaxed and tranquil lifestyle, compared to bustling cities like Seoul. You can enjoy the serene beauty of nature, visit historical sites, and experience a slower pace of life, while still having access to cool, up-and-coming areas such as Hwangridangil where many picturesque hanok (traditional Korean houses) have been converted into chic and social media-worthy cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Gyeongju is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and forests. It’s a great place for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping. And its residents are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. You’ll likely find it easy to make friends and connect with the local community.
Further, compared to major cities like Seoul, Gyeongju offers a lower cost of living, with excellent healthcare, transportation and walkability scores. Not to be missed, is Gyeongju’s thriving culinary scene of international cuisine and local favorites such as bulgogi, ribs and other standard Korean barbecue, kimbap (seaweed rolls stuffed with rice and various fillings), garlic and cream cheese bread, and hanwoo mool hwoe, beef tartar served in a chilled broth with noodles.
Though language may be a barrier as well as fewer foreign amenities, overall, Gyeongju can be a great place for expats, travelers and digital-nomads who appreciate history, culture, incredible scenery, and a little slower pace of life — a unique and rewarding experience.
