1. The Gumiho (a mythical nine-tailed fox spirit in Korean folklore) Legend of Anapji
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| The Gumiho of Anapji and Other Eerie Tales |
Gyeongju's nights are particularly deep and mysterious. Especially when the moonlight reflects off the tranquil waters of Anapji (Wolji), an eerie tale that has been passed down through generations comes to life. This pond, located in the heart of the Silla royal palace, is renowned for its beautiful lotus flowers and exquisite architecture. However, as night falls, rumors spread of an unknown entity wandering the area.
According to ancient records, a royal court lady mysteriously vanished one day. She was last seen near Anapji, and those who had encountered her before her disappearance mentioned her eyes had taken on an uncanny glow. Some claimed she had ceased to be human and had instead transformed into a golden-furred Gumiho (a mythical nine-tailed fox spirit in Korean folklore) under the moonlight.
On certain nights, when strolling near Anapji, people say they can hear the faint laughter of a woman carried by the wind. Sometimes, a hazy figure of a woman can be seen sitting by the pond, but approaching her is strictly forbidden. Those who have seen her reportedly suffer from persistent nightmares or strangely blurred memories. Many believe that this woman became a Gumiho (a mythical nine-tailed fox spirit in Korean folklore) and now roams the area, and even today, some say they have glimpsed her shadow flickering around the pond at night.
2. Other Chilling Legends of Gyeongju
The Curse of Poseokjeong (an ancient royal banquet site in Gyeongju)
At the end of the Silla dynasty, King Gyeongae was enjoying a banquet with his ministers at Poseokjeong (an ancient royal banquet site in Gyeongju). As wine flowed and music played, Goryeo’s army suddenly stormed in. The king and his courtiers were slaughtered at the site, and it is said that their lingering spirits still haunt the area. Some visitors claim to hear faint murmurs of people reciting poetry over drinks, and others have witnessed wine cups mysteriously moving on their own.
The Ghostly Tale of the Choi Clan House (a well-preserved traditional Korean hanok)
Among Gyeongju’s many traditional hanok houses, the Choi Clan House (a well-preserved traditional Korean hanok) stands out with its deep historical roots. During the day, it exudes tranquility, but at night, chilling rumors emerge. Many have reported an inexplicable cold presence in certain rooms, windows opening by themselves, or hearing footsteps despite no one being there. Legend has it that a woman who met an unjust fate still lingers in the house, and those who walk around it at night may hear the sound of quiet sobbing.
The Guardian Spirit of Daereungwon (a royal tomb complex from the Silla dynasty)
Daereungwon (a royal tomb complex from the Silla dynasty) is home to the tombs of Silla kings, but at night, a dark shadow is said to appear among the burial mounds. Security guards stationed there have reported hearing whispers telling them to “leave this place.” As the night deepens, some claim to have seen an unidentifiable figure moving between the tombs. Whether this is a guardian spirit protecting the site or a spectral remnant of history remains a mystery.
📍 Guide to Real-Life Historical Sites in Gyeongju
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| Gyeongju Anapji |
- Gyeongju Anapji (Wolji): A beautiful pond in the royal palace, famous for its nighttime scenery and eerie legends.
- Poseokjeong (an ancient royal banquet site in Gyeongju): The site of a tragic event marking the fall of Silla, steeped in historical significance.
- Choi Clan House (a well-preserved traditional Korean hanok): A well-preserved traditional hanok with chilling ghost stories.
- Daereungwon (a royal tomb complex from the Silla dynasty): The royal tombs of Silla kings, exuding an aura of mystery and history.
Gyeongju is not only a city of historic relics but also one filled with eerie legends. As night falls, these stories seem to come alive. If you ever visit Gyeongju, recalling these tales while exploring might add an extra layer of thrill to your journey.
