From the very first note, “No. 29” from BTS’s fifth studio album captivates listeners with the resonant sound of a bell. Inspired by the reverberations of the Divine Bell of King Seongdeok (National Treasure No. 29), the short yet weighty chime anchors the overarching tone of the entire track and presents a masterful integration of traditional acoustic heritage within a modern musical framework. BTS, which has consistently showcased Korean elements through their stages, attire, and choreography, purposefully shifts the spotlight here to the raw power of sound.
Without lyrics or instrumentation, the solemn resonance of the bell plays for a full minute and a half. This artistic choice beautifully mirrors the ancient inscription carved onto the Divine Bell, “May the teachings of Buddha reach every soul,” and expresses the hope that BTS’s positive influence will continue to spread across the world.

The fascination with BTS’s new release is leading fans to Gyeongju. Along with the Divine Bell housed at the Gyeongju National Museum, the installation artwork Void Circle at the Bomun Tourism Complex has emerged as a new point of interest. Created by artist Han Won-seok, Void Circle is a large-scale installation crafted from 2,025 individual pipes arranged to mirror the form of the ancient bell. The structure displays an intricate geometric beauty under the daytime sun, while sunset initiates a spectacular choreography of light. As light filters through the framework, the iconic outline of the bell becomes even more pronounced, creating a powerful visual experience. This seamless transition from an auditory musical sensation to a physical experience is offering visitors a new way to engage with Gyeongju’s cultural landscape.

This phenomenon perfectly highlights the enduring power of cultural heritage when intertwined with pop culture. A national treasure once confined within museum walls is finding renewed relevance through music and creating new ways for people to discover and connect with Gyeongju. Together, the Divine Bell at the Gyeongju National Museum and Void Circle in the Bomun Tourism Complex form a compelling cultural route, inviting a wave of younger visitors to the city. As traditional heritage intersects with modern pop culture, Gyeongju is being rediscovered and remembered in an entirely new way.