Looking back,

the period between 660 and 935 A.D. epitomized
a true renaissance in Korean societal history. Hwarang-do
continued to prosper under Silla’s united, highly civilized culture.
Maritime trade flourished with Korean ships ruling the
waves. The arts and education thrived. State sponsorship of
Buddhism resulted in a free exchange of thoughts and ideas
between Sillian clerics and their Chinese counterparts.
Monasteries were constructed, and a general sense of social consciousness
pervaded the country with its rulers effectively leading
by example.