When travelers think of Gyeongju, they usually picture the ancient grassy tombs and temples located in the bustling city center. However, taking a scenic 40-minute drive to the East Coast reveals a completely different side of the city—a place where crashing waves meet one of the most fascinating and heroic legends in Korean history.
Daewangam: The Underwater Tomb of King Munmu
Looking out into the vast East Sea from the Bonggil-ri beach, you will see a unique cluster of rocky islets roughly 200 meters from the shore. This is Daewangam, the underwater tomb of King Munmu.
King Munmu was the 30th ruler of the Silla Dynasty and the legendary monarch who finally unified the Three Kingdoms of Korea in 668 CE. Despite his incredible achievements, his final wish was deeply selfless. He left a famous will: "Upon my death, do not build a grand tomb for me. Cremate my body and scatter my ashes in the East Sea. I will become a Sea Dragon to protect the country from Japanese pirates and invaders." Standing on the beach and listening to the fierce waves crashing against his rocky resting place, you can truly feel the King’s eternal dedication to his people.
The Legend of Manpasikjeok (The Mystical Flute)
The story of the Sea Dragon doesn't end there. As you explore the coastal area, you will find signboards telling the mythical story of Manpasikjeok. According to legend, King Munmu (now a Sea Dragon) and a heavenly general sent a mysterious bamboo tree to Munmu’s son, King Sinmun.
When the bamboo was crafted into a flute and played, magical things happened: enemy troops retreated, diseases were cured, droughts ended with rain, and harsh waves were instantly calmed. This mystical flute, the Manpasikjeok (meaning "the flute that calms ten thousand waves"), remains one of Korea's most beloved ancient myths, symbolizing peace and national harmony.
Gameunsa Temple Site: A Resting Place for the Dragon
Right near the coast sits the majestic Gameunsa Temple Site. King Sinmun built this grand temple to honor his father, King Munmu. The architecture was incredibly unique; historical records state that a special empty space was built beneath the main hall's stone floor. This was designed as a sacred passage so that the 'Sea Dragon' could comfortably enter from the ocean and rest when visiting the land.
Though the wooden structures have long burned down, two massive, awe-inspiring three-story stone pagodas still stand tall in the empty field. Reaching over 13 meters in height, these twin pagodas are among the largest in Korea, silently and powerfully watching over the East Sea for over 1,300 years.
Traveler's Tip: To fully enjoy the Gyeongju East Coast course, renting a car or taking a taxi tour is highly recommended. After feeling the ocean breeze and exploring the myths, grab a bowl of fresh seafood noodle soup (Haemul Kalguksu) at one of the local restaurants along the coastal road!
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