Long, long ago, in ancient times, in the southern land of Korea, there lived a young and wise king named Suro. King Suro ruled the kingdom of Gaya. He was strong and led his kingdom with strength and honor. However, there was something he longed for—something he couldn’t explain to himself or anyone else.

Far across the ocean, in the Indian kingdom of Ayuta, lived a princess named Suriratna (also known as Heo Hwang-ok). One night, she had a powerful dream. In it, she heard a divine voice telling her she was destined to marry a king from a distant land. The princess had never seen this man or his country, but she believed it was her calling.

With courage in her heart, she assembled a fleet, brought along scholars, companions, and many gifts, and set out on a journey to an unknown land. Though there was no promise of safety, she carried herself and her voyage forward with only the faith in her heart.

Weeks passed, and one fine day, her ships landed on the shores of Gaya. The people watched in awe as the graceful princess stepped ashore. Then came King Suro to meet her, and in that moment, there was a silent understanding between them—as if fate had brought them together.

Soon, they were married in a union that blended two ancient cultures—Indian and Korean. Together, they had ten sons. As a lasting gesture of love and unity, two of their sons took their mother’s surname, Heo—a name that still exists in Korea today.

Centuries later, a memorial still stands in Ayodhya, India, where her journey began. It was built to honor the brave woman who followed a divine dream across the sea.