Munmudaewang (문무대왕), this is the Sila king who conquered Baekje and Gogurye, and destroyed its own ally China's Tang forces, therefore effectively united the Korea Peninsula around 660s AD for the first time in Korean history. He supposedly buried here after following Buddhist burial tradition of cremation. He was the only ruler who followed the Buddhist burial practice, cremation. Furthermore, he chose this spot per his wish to protect his kingdom in afterlife in the form of dragon, from Japan's raiding forces who attacked his kingdom so many times from the sea.
Gyeongju was the capital of Sila Kingdom for a thousand years. Every part of this city has its history. So much to see around.
I personally believe this is the best part of Korea, Southeastern coastal region. So many Buddhist artifacts, old temples, statues, and histories.
From 2nd visit to the area
