[공주와 부여 여행: 잃어버린 백제 왕국의 보물을 찾아서] | Gongju and Buyeo Travel: Uncovering the Lost Treasures of the Baekje Kingdom

Introduction: A Journey into a Lost Kingdom

Welcome, history and culture buffs, to a journey back in time.
While Seoul’s grand palaces and Gyeongju’s royal tombs are famous, a truly captivating chapter of Korean history lies waiting in the cities of Gongju and Buyeo.
These were the capitals of the Baekje Kingdom (18 BC – 660 AD), a realm renowned for its artistic sophistication and cultural influence.
This guide will lead you through the Baekje Historic Areas, a collective UNESCO World Heritage site, on an unforgettable Korean history tour.

Discovering Gongju (Ungjin): The Fortress Capital

Our Gongju and Buyeo travel begins in Gongju, the capital during the Ungjin period (475-538 AD).
This city served as a defensive stronghold after Baekje lost its first capital (present-day Seoul) to the rival Goguryeo kingdom.

1. Gongsanseong Fortress

Perched on a hill overlooking the Geumgang River, Gongsanseong Fortress was part royal palace, part defensive wall.
Walking along its 2.6-kilometer-long ramparts offers breathtaking views and a tangible connection to the past.
Imagine Baekje soldiers standing guard, watching over the river and the kingdom they protected.

Pro Tip: Visit in the early evening to see the fortress walls beautifully illuminated.
It’s a magical sight that makes for stunning photographs.

2. The Tomb of King Muryeong

One of the most significant discoveries in Korean archaeology is the Tomb of King Muryeong, the 25th king of Baekje.
It’s the only royal tomb from this era found completely intact, with its treasures untouched by looters.
While you cannot enter the actual tomb, the adjacent museum displays the stunning replicas of the golden diadems, intricate jewelry, and a stone epitaph that identified the king and queen.
It offers a rare glimpse into the lavish burial customs and artistry of the Baekje elite.

Exploring Buyeo (Sabi): The Kingdom’s Final Flourish

Next, we journey to Buyeo, the final Baekje capital during its most culturally rich Sabi period (538-660 AD).
This is where Baekje’s art and philosophy reached their zenith before the kingdom’s eventual fall.

1. Busosanseong Fortress & Nakhwaam Rock

Associated with the tragic legend of the 3,000 royal court ladies, Busosanseong Fortress is a beautiful, forested park.
A peaceful walk through the woods leads you to Nakhwaam Rock (“Rock of Falling Flowers”), where the ladies are said to have leaped to their deaths rather than be captured during the Silla-Tang invasion.
It’s a place of somber beauty and reflection on loyalty and sacrifice.

2. Jeongnimsa Temple Site & Five-Story Stone Pagoda

At the heart of Buyeo lies the Jeongnimsa Temple Site, home to an elegant five-story stone pagoda.
This pagoda is a masterpiece of Baekje architecture, known for its simple, refined proportions that exude a sense of stability and grace.
Standing for over 1,400 years, it is a testament to the incredible skill of Baekje craftsmen and a must-see for anyone interested in Buddhist art. You can find more historical context at the Buyeo National Museum.

Your Questions Answered: FAQ for the Baekje Tour

Conclusion: Embrace the Spirit of Baekje

A journey through Gongju and Buyeo is more than just sightseeing; it’s an immersive dive into the soul of an ancient kingdom.
You’ll leave with a profound appreciation for the delicate artistry and resilient spirit that defined the Baekje Kingdom.
The stories etched into the fortress walls and stone pagodas will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

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