Muyeol Royal Tomb & Seoak-dong Tumuli 무열왕릉·서악동 고분군
Gyeongju · Namsan & Southwest · Sights
The star here is the tomb of King Muyeol, whose stone stele rests on a carved tortoise base, a classic example of Silla stonework. Behind it, a line of large mounds extends up a gentle slope, and the grounds are wide, quiet and easy to explore in about an hour. Spring peonies and autumn chrysanthemums bring seasonal color, and the late-day light over the mounds is lovely.
Entry costs a small fee that may change, and most visitors have the place nearly to themselves. English signs may be limited, so check on site. A cafe and a brunch spot sit just beside the park, which makes the trip comfortable.
Take a city bus to the Muyeol Royal Tomb stop; it is about 10 minutes by car from the bus terminal. Free parking is on site. (Show a driver: 무열왕릉)
Show this Korean name to your taxi driver or match it to signs: 무열왕릉·서악동 고분군
- Best time to visit
- Spring peony season and autumn chrysanthemum season; late afternoon light otherwise.
- Pair it with
- Sosomilmil Book Cafe and Sayujeok Garden Gyeongju are within a few minutes, and General Kim Yu-sin's Tomb is a short ride.
- Great for
- Parents, Solo travelers
- Local tip
- Look for the tortoise-based stele in front of the king's tomb. The grounds are wide and quiet; autumn chrysanthemums grow nearby.