Gyeongju, South Korea — In preparation for the 2025 APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, which will take place in late October, Gyeongju City is accelerating a project to install new landscape lighting at key cultural heritage sites. This initiative aims to highlight the city's rich history and cultural elegance, making Gyeongju's nighttime a more enchanting experience for international visitors. The goal is to present Gyeongju as a city where the "light of history and the scent of culture" are palpable, leaving a lasting impression on a global audience.
The project, with a total budget of $850,000, will focus on three specific historical locations: Sangseojang, the North Gate of Myeonghwalseong Fortress, and Pyoam. The city plans to complete all installations by mid-September, ensuring everything is ready before the APEC summit begins.
Key Heritage Sites to be Illuminated
Sangseojang Located in Inwang-dong, Sangseojang is a significant historical site that honors the family of the Silla scholar Choe Chiwon. The new lighting will highlight its main gate (oesamun), stone walls, stairs, and the surrounding trees. The project, which involved design planning and administrative procedures since April, is scheduled to begin construction next month and finish by mid-September.
North Gate of Myeonghwalseong Fortress The area around the North Gate of Myeonghwalseong Fortress in Bomun-dong will see significant improvements. In addition to the installation of new landscape lighting, the city will also enhance the surrounding environment. This includes installing security lights in the parking lot, planting new grass, and improving drainage systems. The design phase for this project is set to be completed this month, with construction scheduled to start next month.
Pyoam The area of Pyoam, another historically significant site, will also receive new landscape lighting. The focus will be on Pyoamjae Hall, Gwangimdae Pavilion, the memorial monument (yuheobi), and surrounding walls and trees. Following the completion of the design and landscape review processes next month, construction will commence and is expected to be finished by September.
Gyeongju City Mayor Joo Nak-young emphasized the significance of the project, stating, "This project is the starting point for creating a beautiful nightscape that captures Gyeongju's tradition and beauty. We will continue to develop nighttime tourism content to establish Gyeongju as a 'city of beautiful nights'."
The city is working closely with relevant departments to ensure the projects are completed on schedule before the APEC summit. This initiative is a crucial step in Gyeongju's ongoing efforts to enhance its reputation as a world-class historical and cultural destination and to welcome international guests with a truly memorable experience.
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