This is where variety springs up. There are expensive hotels with all sorts of foreigner oriented service, Amusement parks and midway, Night clubs, etc. Tourist areas also seem to get a wider share of development dollars, as they bring money in. The toilets are cleaner. The sidewalks exist.
People are active and interesting.
Kyungju is the ancient capitol of various dynasties in Korea. Currently it is like a national museum with several historical sites. You will probably be invited to Kyungju at the first opportunity by any Korean friends you make. They will want to show you this piece of their national pride. Unfortunately, most often they will try to show you everything and you will end up seeing almost nothing due to the rush.