The Silla Palace is reenacted in the Silla Millenium Park. Photo by Jang Youn-hee.

It has been four years since I came to Korea – now I am walking toward graduation day. That is to face how to find a good work and to choose the way which I have to go in the future.I wish to give all of mine to nature with the pressure which now I have got. Because all humans come from Mother Nature, all we want will be found in her arms.
In May’s sunshine away from the noisy city, a few ladies got a good two-day travel to Gyeong-ju, an ancient city with simple things.
The city of Gyeong-ju is similar to Chang’an city of China’s Tang Dynasty. In Korean history, this city which was the capital of Silla Dynasty, has many remains that is regarded proudly by all Koreans. People often call this city an open-air museum for this reason. Because of the large scale, we can walk to them one by one easily. I cannot help but to sigh at the locals who are preserving the relics by themselves.
For people who are new to the city, the most attracting view to the eyes are the big and strong tombs.According to the guide who led the students around Gyeong-ju, the city has almost 50 tombs that have been completely preserved.

Above is a pillar of what was Hwangyong temple site in Silla. Photo by Jang Youn-hee.

Furthermore, as a female student, I yearned for Queen Seonduk, the 27th queen in Silla Dynasty. To understand Queen Seonduk better, I had the opportunity to see the Miso II performance. The dance moves, lighting, and music were all a perfect interpretation of the Queen’s life. Korean culture was depicted with much depth that it touched me to a great extent – even shocking.
By walking on the streets of Gyeong-ju city, looking at the local’s happy life, breathing the fresh air, I was impressed by the power and strength the city gives to people. Whether it is the Cheomseongdae Observatory produced by Queen Seonduk, the Gyeong-ju National Museum or Punhwangsaji, all of them gave unlimited memorial and reverie.
Through the two days of travel, I was able to travel through a millennium. All the different parts of the city allowed for visitors to see the city from different angles. At the same time, I also deeply appreciate the charm of history and culture of South Korea.
Sitting on the train heading back to Seoul, I realized that Gyeong-ju restored me with strength and happiness, and gave a light of hope toward the future.

* Chang Yu (Journalism, 4) is a contributing writer who travelled to Gyeong-ju on May 19 and 20 with the Ewha Voice.

저작권자 © Ewha Voice 무단전재 및 재배포 금지