Jisoo Park, a Student Council Associate, shares her experience of the excursion to Hwangnidan-Gil, located at the heart of Gyeongju City.

We set off early in the morning, guided by the student council and their associates, eagerly heading to Gyeongju. Along the way, we stopped at a rest area, where we had the chance to sample a variety of Korean snacks and experience the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Korean rest stops. In particular, my friends were delighted by the taste of so-tteok so-tteok—a simple yet delicious treat. The time we spent together, sharing laughter and conversation, felt truly precious.

Upon arriving in Gyeongju, we explored Hwangridan-gil, wandering through charming cafes and unique shops that beautifully blended Korea’s rich traditions with modern aesthetics. We were captivated by the distinctive culture and atmosphere, our eyes filled with curiosity and admiration.

One of the most memorable moments was tasting Gyeongju’s famous 10-won bread and jjondaegi. The soft, delicate flavor of the 10-won bread felt like a bite of spring sunshine. Watching my friends share snacks and exchange stories about their own cultures was heartwarming.

Visiting various historical sites deeply connected to Korean history was another meaningful part of the trip. It wasn’t just about sightseeing—it became an opportunity to truly appreciate Korea’s profound history and traditions. The sense of respect I felt at these sites made the experience even more significant.

Our excursion to Gyeongju felt like traveling through time, immersing ourselves in a place where history and culture are still alive and breathing. Before heading back, we took a group photo to commemorate the trip, capturing the precious memories we had created. On the way home, we shared stories, reminisced about the day, and excitedly promised to embark on our next adventure together.

As my first excursion as a freshman, this trip offered a meaningful introduction to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education. Exploring Gyeongju, a city celebrated for its rich historical and cultural heritage, deepened my appreciation for the connection between sustainable development and cultural preservation. Our guided tour of the legendary Cheomseongdae Observatory underscored the importance of protecting historical landmarks and promoting inclusive, lifelong learning. This experience strongly reflects SDG 4, highlighting how cultural heritage fosters knowledge exchange and historical awareness.

I’m already looking forward to our next excursion to Busan!