The central void of the tower is constructed using a steel frame to replicate the exact scale of the lost nine-story pagoda of the ancient Hwangnyongsa Temple.
The tower's design was selected through an international architectural competition to modernize the aesthetic of the Silla period for the 21st century.
The structure acts as a permanent facility for the Gyeongju World Culture Expo, an event that promotes Korean cultural heritage globally.
Advanced LED projection technology is often utilized on the tower's surface for evening media art shows.
The tower integrates 'Silla cultural heritage' themes through internal museums rather than traditional gallery settings.
Gyeongju Tower is a 82-meter tall landmark located within the Gyeongju Expo Park that features a hollowed-out center designed to mimic the silhouette of a multi-story wooden pagoda. The tower serves as the centerpiece of the Gyeongju World Culture Expo, acting as both an observation deck and a digital exhibition space. Its design references the nine-story pagoda of Hwangnyongsa Temple, which was historically the tallest wooden structure in Korea. Visitors can access an observation deck on the top floor that provides panoramic views of the Bomun Lake resort area and the surrounding mountainous landscape. The structure incorporates multimedia displays and historical artifacts related to the Silla Dynasty. The tower functions as an architectural anchor for the surrounding botanical gardens and outdoor sculpture trails. It frequently hosts rotating cultural exhibitions and digital media art installations.
From the ground level directly in front of the tower, capturing the silhouette of the pagoda through the hollow center.
Visit the Sky Garden on the top floor for an unobstructed view of the surrounding Gyeongju Expo Park.
Check the local schedule for evening media facade light shows, which illuminate the tower's central cutout.
Combine the visit with a walk through the nearby Gyeongju Expo Park gardens for a full afternoon experience.
Do not attempt to walk to the tower from central Gyeongju city; it is located significantly outside the main historic district.
Closed on Mondays during the off-season; seasonal park maintenance may impact access to surrounding garden paths.
