Meeting a Thousand Years of Smiles and Warmth Under the Cumulus Clouds
On a weekend when fluffy cumulus clouds drifted high into the summer sky, we headed toward Gyeongju along an open road. The clear blue sky and white cloud formations stretching out coolly beyond the front windshield were enough to make the heart feel completely wide open just by looking at them. Every landscape passing by the car window was full of the unique freshness of a summer day, and the car was filled with the distinct excitement of travel and friendly laughter. As the midday heat gradually built up, we continued our pleasant drive toward our first destination.
Savory Morning Pork Belly and a Sun-Drenched Cafe
At the restaurant we finally arrived at, we placed thick pork belly and chunky pork neck on a large stone grill to appease our hungry stomachs. As the fire came up, the meat sizzled and cooked, and the savory aroma of grease wafting out mercilessly stimulated the tip of our noses. Taking a piece of well-cooked meat, dipping it in seasoned sesame oil, and putting it in my mouth, the juices burst out, sending a thrill. We repeatedly raised our thumbs and exclaimed, "This place is a real pork belly specialty house, we did so well to come here!" It was a hearty and satisfying meal that blew away all the fatigue of a hot summer day.
After filling our bellies, we walked to the cafe located right across from the restaurant. The cafe, with its business name engraved in a neat font on an ivory-colored exterior wall, was letting warm sunlight deep inside through its floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Securing a spot under the cool air conditioning inside the cafe, we drank refreshing beverages while looking at the sunlight beyond the window. Our appearance viewed from outside the window blended with the sunlight, exuding a relaxed and harmonious atmosphere. Taking a short tea break away from busy daily life seemed to melt even our hearts.
Exploring the Museum Preserving the Breath of a Thousand Years
In the afternoon, we visited the Gyeongju National Museum to encounter the deep history and relics of Silla. As we stepped into the museum, a cool and quiet air, quite different from the sweltering heat outside, wrapped around our bodies. In the center of the exhibition hall, a comb-pattern pottery, which made us feel the sophisticated touch of our ancestors, held its heavy place. Closely observing the comb patterns engraved at regular intervals on the surface of the pottery, we could not help but admire the lives and skills of ancient people. The weight of time was fully laid upon the simple yet solid shape molded from clay.
As we entered deeper into the exhibition hall, the essence of dazzling Silla metal craftsmanship revealed itself. From gilt-bronze shoes with faded, delicate patterns to a golden crown shining brilliantly in the dark display case, and elaborate crown ornaments that looked like gold wings spread out, the procession of relics left onlookers spellbound. The scene of the delicately crafted gold decorations catching the light and reflecting it in all directions seemed to vividly recreate the splendid days of the Silla royalty before our eyes.
On one wall of the exhibition hall, the 'Smile of Silla', the roof-end tile with human face pattern, which we had only seen in textbooks, was displayed all by itself. Despite having its corners chipped away slightly after enduring long ages, the gentle and benevolent smile captured on the broken tile piece made even the viewer's heart peaceful and warm.
The sacred atmosphere of the stone Buddha statue display hall we encountered next was also overwhelming. The serene expression and fluid drapery of the Buddha standing neatly under the soft lighting offered a deep resonance and tranquility amidst the museum's characteristic coolness.
Stepping out into the museum's outdoor garden, the Sacred Bell of Great King Seongdeok stood firmly, holding the traces of time with its majestic height. Looking around at the delicate carvings and patterns of devas engraved on the surface of the bell, I imagined the sound that would have spread across the fields when this bell rang a thousand years ago. The recorded sound of the bell spread softly through the garden, delivering a deeply moving emotion to the core of my chest.
Cheese-Filled Pizza Dinner and Late-Night Snack Chat Continuing Through the Night
Leaving the museum, we headed to a trendy pizza parlor for dinner. The freshly baked, warm pizza placed on the table captured our eyes first, generously topped with large wedge potatoes, bacon, and meat toppings. As we lifted a slice of pizza, the chewy cheese stretched long, bringing visual fun and the joy of eating at the same time. The taste of pizza paired with a tangy carbonated drink was truly delicious. The fatigue of diligently walking and exploring during the day melted away with the delicious food.
As the night deepened, we returned to our accommodation and sat comfortably around the floor. Laying out the warm rice noodles, savory pancakes, and stir-fried noodles we had ordered to go, we tilted canned beers and soju bottles to start a full-fledged late-night snack time. Sitting barefoot on the floor, sharing the simply prepared food, we constantly talked about the places we visited today and the fun moments. The room was filled with roaring laughter as we said, "Today was really packed from the pork belly to the museum!" and thus the travel night deepened with unforgettable, cozy warmth.
This Gyeongju trip, which started under a clear summer sky, met a thousand years of Silla's history, and blossomed with laughter along with delicious food, went beyond mere relaxation to become a precious page that will remain in our memories for a long time. The brilliance of the golden relics captured by our eyes, the delicious aftertaste remaining in our mouths, and the warm chat we shared all came together to completely fill the day.
