Gyeongju, South Korea – Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom and the host city for next month's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, is a location known for more than just its rich cultural heritage. The city’s selection as the summit venue is largely attributed to its unique geography, which provided a natural fortress for the Silla monarchy and now offers an ideal environment for the high-level security required for an APEC meeting.

For nearly a thousand years (57 BCE to 935 CE), Gyeongju served as the undisputed capital of Silla, a stability unprecedented in the peninsula's history. This was made possible by its basin-like topography, encircled by a natural mountain range—Tohamsan to the east, Namsan to the south, Seondosan to the west, and Geumgangsan to the north. While the city lies just 39 kilometers from the coast, these mountains acted as a bulwark against maritime incursions, shielding the capital from both invaders and natural disasters. The city's three rivers also served a dual purpose, acting as natural moats to fortify the royal palace while ensuring effective drainage to prevent flooding.

This historical significance extends beyond military defense. According to the "Samguk Yusa" historical record, Silla's capital was home to an estimated 178,396 households, suggesting a population nearing one million people. This made Gyeongju one of the world's great metropolises in the 8th and 9th centuries, rivaling ancient Rome. Archaeological findings, such as Roman glass and statues of Arab warriors guarding royal tombs, confirm that Gyeongju was a thriving international hub of commerce and cultural exchange. It is a historical parallel that adds profound meaning to today's APEC leaders gathering in the city.

For the upcoming summit, the Bomun Tourist Complex has been designated as the primary venue. This area is considered a "fortress within a fortress," as it is situated within a mountain-enclosed basin while also surrounding the large Bomun Lake. The main APEC convention center and key hotels are clustered along a single road that circles the lake, allowing for swift, "watertight" control of all access points. This strategic layout ensures an impenetrable security perimeter for the world leaders.

While Gyeongju is celebrated as a "museum without a roof" for its countless historical treasures like Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and Cheomseongdae Observatory, local officials say its robust tourism infrastructure and, most crucially, its exceptional security advantages were the decisive factors in its selection as the APEC host city.