Driving along the coastal road from Gyeongju to Gampo, you will discover a place where the ocean and ancient history meet. Built on the site of the former Daebon Elementary School, the King Munmu Maritime History Museum overlooks Igyeondae Pavilion and offers sweeping views toward the Tomb of King Munmu. Standing tall is a 6.76 m monument symbolizing the year 676, when Silla unified the Three Kingdoms. Looking at the monument from the open plaza immediately conveys the grand scale of King Munmu’s legacy.

Upon entering the building, visitors are greeted by a circular LED installation inspired by the sea of Gampo, along with displays featuring King Munmu’s final words and poetic lines by Cheongma Yu Chi-hwan. After exploring the first floor dedicated to experiences, relaxation, and local memories, visitors ascend to the second floor, where the story of Silla’s maritime world unfolds. In the Silla Maritime Silk Road Exhibition Hall, interactive exhibits allow visitors to experience the Maritime Silk Road with engaging games and hands-on activities. Guests can assemble replicas of major artifacts, including the Bronze Bell of Sangwonsa Temple and a green-glazed lotus-patterned bowl, or color illustrations of Silla generals and project them onto a giant screen. It is an enchanting experience that leaves both children and adults spellbound.

Inside the King Munmu History Exhibition Hall, expansive screens blend together with digital waves rippling across the floor. Sink into a beanbag, let the screen fill your vision, and before long you will feel as though you are aboard a great Silla trading vessel. As you watch sea turtles glide through the deep ocean surrounding the Tomb of King Munmu and witness the legendary king dramatically reborn as a sea dragon, you will be transported back to Silla 1,300 years ago. An outdoor observation deck between exhibition halls offers a remarkable view of the Tomb of King Munmu, making the historic site feel close enough to touch.

One section of the first floor commemorates the history of the former Daebon Elementary School and preserves cherished memories of the local community. The museum is also hosting a special exhibition dedicated to Captain Kim Young-ae, who became the first South Korean woman to complete a solo global sailing voyage in her 60s, navigating 33,000 km across 17 countries over a grueling 405 days. Her journey beautifully mirrors the indomitable spirit of King Munmu, venturing beyond boundaries and embracing the wider world. Across the hall, a coffee shop with expansive, floor-to-ceiling windows invites you to unwind over a drink while taking in the endless ocean. The gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, including locally inspired products that reflect the distinctive character of Gyeongju.

Along with nearby landmarks such as Igyeondae, the Tomb of King Munmu, and the Gameunsa Temple Site, the museum allows visitors to trace the grand arc of Silla’s maritime history in a single, fluid journey. As art historian Uhyeon Go yu-seop once remarked, “If you visit Gyeongju, seek out the great achievements of King Munmu.” The museum does more than preserve the past. From the Maritime Silk Road to contemporary maritime culture, it invites visitors to reconsider how the sea connected Korea to the wider world. With that mission, the King Munmu Maritime History Museum powerfully embarks on its voyage.