This Is Why Gyeongju Has Been Chosen As the 2025 APEC City! [An Amazing Cultural Experience!]
- lewishooper1
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Discover Gyeongju, from past to present, we introduce Korea’s timeless cultural capital! We explore why this ancient city should be at the top of your visit to Korea!
Why is Gyeongju so special?
Located in the southeastern region of the Republic of Korea, you will find an amazing city named Gyeongju. This city is often referred to as “the museum without walls". Once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom (57 BCE – 935 CE), Gyeongju is one of Korea’s most historically rich cities, offering visitors a unique opportunity to walk through over a thousand years of Korean heritage, and for the most part without any cost involved.
Gyeongju was the heart of Silla civilization, and the city is now home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the iconic Bulguksa Temple and the serene Wolji Pond (formerly known as Anapji). Scattered across the city, you’ll also find royal burial mounds, ancient observatories, and beautifully preserved relics that bring Korea’s past to life in a way few places can.
However, Gyeongju is not just a place for history enthusiasts—it’s a city where tradition and modern charm coexist. Therefore, this small city in the South is a charming city, where, as you explore, you’ll find scenic landscapes of gentle hills and mountains, along with stylish cafés, boutique shops, and local restaurants offering both contemporary flavors and classic Korean cuisine. This among many reasons why tourists and locals alike enjoy visiting Gyeongju.
What is APEC 2025?
APEC 2025 (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) is one of the most prestigious events, as it welcomes high-level CEOs and World Presidents from 21 Pacific Rim member economies to discuss regional economic issues. Hosted by South Korea for the first time two decades ago, the meeting serves as the pinnacle of a year-long series of working-level meetings, which have been mostly focused on the host's theme for 2025, “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow: Connect, Innovate, Prosper.”
The main goal of APEC is to foster greater prosperity for the region by promoting free and open trade, driving digital and technological innovation, and accelerating economic integration without imposing legally binding obligations or sanctions.
This year's meeting will host major world leaders, including President Donald Trump of the United States and President Xi Jinping of China, which has raised the global profile of the summit. The host was the President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae Myung.
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Our experience of Gyeongju
During my recent visit to Hwangridan Gil, a popular cultural street blending old-world charm with modern trends, I met Fin and Lisa, travelers from Germany. When asked about their impressions of Gyeongju, they shared: “We really like Gyeongju. We only just arrived today, but already we’ve experienced so much of Korea’s rich history and culture, alongside its vibrant nightlife and food. We’re really glad we added this city to our travel itinerary.”
I also asked if they were aware of APEC, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, which is currently being highlighted throughout the city. Fin and Lisa noted: “We’ve seen a lot of signage about APEC around Gyeongju, but as travelers, we weren’t quite sure what it was about.”
I took the opportunity to explain that APEC is a vital forum where world leaders come together to promote sustainable economic growth and cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region, making Gyeongju not only a site of historical significance but also a stage for shaping the future.
Whether you're drawn by its deep historical roots, scenic beauty, or modern cultural experiences, Gyeongju offers something truly special for every visitor. As Korea continues to connect its past with the future, and at the same time attracts, more visitors to the country, cities like Gyeongju serve as perfect examples of how history and progress can walk hand in hand, and this is why Gyeongju the timeless Silla city, has been voted the host city of APEC 2025! So the question is, will you be heading there?
Will you be trying to head to Gyeongju for this historic summit? If so, then the Dojeon team would love to hear from you in the comments below!
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