Gyeongju Tower

Overview

Gyeongju Tower is a modern observation tower in the Gyeongju World area near Bomun Lake, designed as a symbolic tribute to the lost nine-storey wooden pagoda of Hwangnyongsa. Standing 82 metres tall, it offers 360-degree views over the city, surrounding mountains, and the distant East Sea from its uppermost observation deck.

Highlights

• 360° View: On clear days the vista stretches from Mount Tohamsan to the east to Namsan's ridgeline in the south.
• Hwangnyongsa Tribute: The tower's proportions reference the lost pagoda, with each floor representing one of the nine storeys.
• Night Illumination: The tower is lit in changing colours after dark, visible from much of the Bomun Lake area.

History

Completed in 2007 as part of the Gyeongju Expo park, the tower was designed by Korean architects to evoke the outline of the Hwangnyongsa pagoda while using modern materials. It has become one of Gyeongju's recognizable modern landmarks alongside its ancient heritage.

Visitor Tips

• Best at sunset: The observation deck is especially rewarding at golden hour.
• Combined ticket: Often bundled with Gyeongju World admission.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.