Gyeongju Seokguram Grotto [UNESCO World Heritage]

About this place

Seokguram (National Treasure) is said to have been founded in the 10th year of King Gyeongdeok of Silla by the then-Prime Minister Kim Daeseong. It is located 3 km from Bulguksa by mountain trail and 9 km by road. The structure harmonizes rectangular and circular forms, straight and curved lines, and flat and spherical surfaces. The 38 figures carved around the walls are each masterpieces, together expressing a high level of philosophical and scientific sophistication. At the center, a seated white granite Buddha gazes toward the East Sea in the direction of King Munmu's underwater royal tomb at Daewangam. Nearby stand Gameunsa Temple ruins and Igyeondae Pavilion, from which the dragon-transformed king was said to have been spotted. Seokguram and Bulguksa were jointly designated UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites on December 6, 1995, along with the Tripitaka Koreana at Haeinsa and Jongmyo Shrine. The crimson sunrise viewed from Seokguram over the horizon is breathtaking.