Gyerim Forest sits in the middle of a historically and culturally rich area in the southern South Korean city of Gyeongju. The trees and the scenery of Gyerim Forest warrant a visit all on their own but it is the legend linked to the forest that makes this place so special.
Gyerim means “Rooster Forest,” named after a rooster that was reportedly heard crowing within the forest many centuries ago. When the king sent someone to investigate, a golden box was found hanging from a tree beside the bird. According to the legend, the box contained an infant who was immediately adopted by the king and named Kim (Gold). Kim Alji grew up to be the founder of the Gyeongju Kim, the clan that produced the majority of Silla monarchs.
Stroll to the small memorial to Kim Alji, which stands as a reminder of the royal origin of the forest. Among the twisted and weathered trunks, you’ll see familiar tree species, such as willow and ash, but also the elegant local zelkova species.
The forest provides a different experience with each change of the season. Spring brings fresh leaves and blossoms and a thick canopy of foliage is great for shade in summer. A riot of color marks the start of fall, while the landscape becomes monochrome in winter with a white wonderland created after each fresh fall of snow.
Take your time as you walk around Gyerim Forest as it is quite small and very easy to get around. Buy some delicious hwangnam-ppang or chalborippang, famous local pastries filled with red-bean paste, to enjoy a little picnic by the stream on a sunny day.
Gyerim Forest is a public space and free to enter. It’s not far from the center of Gyeongju and many visitors combine it with trips to the Ban Wolseong fortress and the Gyeongju National Museum. Take a taxi or hop on a bus and walk the rest of the way. Cycling from the city on a rented bike is a great option as well.
