Gongju, City in South Chungcheong Province, South Korea
Gongju is a city in South Korea with ancient ruins, temples, and art spaces scattered throughout its neighborhoods. The area has narrow streets, old fortress walls, a river valley, and several trails for walking and exploring on foot.
Gongju served as the capital of the Baekje Kingdom from around 475 to 538 CE under the name Ungjin. The city maintained importance for centuries and today still bears marks of this early Korean civilization in its architecture and tombs.
The name Gongju reflects its past as the ancient capital Ungjin of the Baekje Kingdom. Today, traditional markets and hanok guesthouses show how locals continue to honor crafts and hospitality rooted in that heritage.
The city is walkable or accessible by local buses since main attractions are close together. Spring and autumn offer the best conditions for visiting, with mild weather and colorful surroundings throughout neighborhoods.
The Tomb of King Muryeong was discovered by chance in the 1970s and still holds golden crowns, jewelry, and ancient wall paintings that reveal the craftsmanship of the Baekje era. These finds offer glimpses into daily life from 1500 years ago.
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