By UN Journal Belarus Correspondent Kim Sun-ah

Minsk, the capital of Belarus. For those living here, Lake Zaslavskaye is simply a nearby retreat. However, the lake, nicknamed the "Minsk Sea," has become a magnet for both city dwellers and tourists. Located just 5km from downtown Minsk, the lake offers the perfect escape for those seeking a seaside escape in the city.

Lake Zaslavskaye was created in 1956 to prevent flooding and secure water resources. This artificial reservoir, created at the time, has held special significance from its very existence. Covering an area of approximately 31.1 square kilometers, it is the second largest man-made reservoir in Belarus and is now a beloved natural oasis for Minsk residents. Summer offers swimming and boating, while autumn sees forests awash in golden autumn foliage. In winter, visitors can enjoy winter sports on the frozen surface.

The lake's most striking feature is its tranquility. The sky and landscape reflected on its calm waters evoke a profound sense of tranquility for those seeking a break from everyday life. The lake's surface evokes a sense of "time standing still," and a few hours spent here offer a profound sense of relaxation. This is the charm of Lake Zaslavskaye, also known as the "Minsk Sea."

Lake Zaslavskaye attracts not only summer beachgoers but also those seeking a space for reflection. The lake's main visitors can be broadly divided into three groups:

Those weary of the hustle and bustle of the city seek the lake. For those seeking a peaceful retreat, the lake offers the perfect healing space. A simple stroll or a leisurely stroll along the waterfront with a book in hand naturally leads to inner peace.

In summer, Lake Zaslavskaye is bustling with families. It's the perfect place for picnicking on the beach or playing in the water with children. Additionally, the area boasts bike paths and walking trails, making it a popular destination for families with young children.

Artists, photographers, and creatives find the lake's scenery deeply inspiring. The tranquil waters, lush foliage, and the rising sun on the horizon provide a compelling backdrop for artistic creations. Couples and young travelers alike enjoy capturing the lake's beauty on camera.

In this way, Lake Zaslavskaye has become more than just a tourist destination, offering a personalized space of peace for a diverse range of people. The lake offers a place where visitors can experience both Belarusian nature and culture, and has the potential to become a key stage for cultural diplomacy.

In particular, with the growing cultural exchange between Korea and Belarus, the lake is gaining attention as a symbolic space where art and nature meet. Hosting a "K-Folk Painting" exhibition, a performance of traditional Korean music, or an outdoor cultural event incorporating traditional Belarusian art could transform the lake into a stage where the two countries' cultures intertwine.

Cultural events held on the lake would provide an opportunity to convey the message of "the fusion of nature and art." For example, traditional Korean folk paintings could blend with the natural landscape, creating a special moment of cultural exchange between East and West. Furthermore, the process of Belarusian and Korean artists collaborating here to create new cultural content would further deepen the cultural bond between the two countries.

Lake Zaslavskye is not just a tourist attraction; it's a place where sustainable tourism can flourish. Due to its nature as a man-made reservoir, nature conservation and water management are crucial. Therefore, the tourism industry must also develop in a way that respects nature and the environment. For example, if efforts are combined with water quality management, the introduction of eco-friendly transportation that protects the ecosystem, and waste management, the lake can establish itself as a sustainable tourist destination.

Lake ZaslavskAye is more than just a natural attraction; it's a place that leaves a deep impression on people. The sky and landscape reflected on its calm waters, and the yachts floating on the waves, offer a sense of peace, providing a tranquil retreat for those seeking a break from the city.

"When the human heart is as calm as a lake, it can reflect the sky within." True to its name, Lake ZaslavskAye is not simply a place of water, but a place where people's hearts can temporarily rest. A few hours spent here can help people regain the "peace" lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Even today, this lake embraces the thoughts of travelers, offering them "comfort in silence."

Reporter's eyes... Conversation in silence

As you walk along the lake, even a single leaf falling onto the water feels like a conversation.

It's not far from the city, but the heart travels endlessly.

"When the human heart is as calm as a lake, it can reflect the sky within."

Lake Zaslavskaye,
It's not just a place where water gathers, but a place where people's inner selves temporarily linger.

Even today, travelers' thoughts flow across its tranquil surface.