Mukgye Seowon, a symbol of Kim Gye-haeng’s patriotic spirit

What Kind of Place is Mukgye Seowon?

Mukgye Seowon is a Seowon (Confucian academy) from the late Joseon Dynasty located in the area of ​​72, Gukmanri-gil, Gilan-myeon, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do.

Although not large in scale, it was built with substance, giving it a substantial and dignified appearance.

From a visitor's perspective, the term "Seowon" often feels somewhat stuffy,

but this place provides spaces where one can quietly enjoy tea and appreciate the atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for taking photos in many ways.

Mukgye Seowon was established in 1687, the 13th year of King Sukjong's reign, to enshrine Bobaekdang Kim Gye-haeng and Eunggye Ok-go.

Currently, it is designated as a Gyeongsangbuk-do Folk Cultural Heritage under the names Andong Mukgye Seowon and Bobaekdang Jongtaek.

Figures Related to Mukgye Seowon

There are two central figures associated with Mukgye Seowon.

The first is Bobaekdang Kim Gye-haeng, 1431–1517.

A civil official of the early Joseon Dynasty, he passed the civil service examination in 1480, the 11th year of King Seongjong's reign, and held key positions in the Three Offices: the Office of the Inspector General, the Office of the Inspector General, and the Office of the Royal Secretariat.

When his attempts to stop the tyranny of King Yeonsangun were unsuccessful,

he returned to Andong and devoted himself to educating future generations, earning him the reverence of an upright official.

The second is Eunggye Okgo (1382–1436).

He studied under Yaeun Giljae during the late Goryeo Dynasty and passed the civil service examination in 1399, the first year of King Jeongjong's reign.

He subsequently held various government positions and is remembered as a figure who governed wisely

while stationed in the Andong region.

Historical Flow

Mukgye Seowon was founded in 1687 and was demolished during the period of Heungseon Daewongun's decree to abolish private academies.

The year of demolition is listed differently in various sources, appearing as either 1869 or 1871.

According to data from the Korea Tourism Organization, the lecture hall, the gatehouse Eupcheongru, Jindeokmun, and the East Wing were subsequently restored.

The lecture hall was renovated in 1915 to continue its academic functions, and it was restored to its current form in 1998.

It is stated that ancestral rites are held annually on the 5th day of the 8th lunar month.

The lecture hall of Mukgye Seowon is a building with a hipped tile roof measuring five bays in the front and two bays on the side.

It features a typical central hall with side rooms,

with a wooden floor in the center three bays and heated rooms on the left and right.

Next to the Seowon are the stele and pavilion of Bobaekdang Kim Gye-haeng,

and the Bobaekdang Jongtaek is described as a U-shaped building measuring six bays in the front and six bays on the side.

**Relationship between Bobaekdang Jongtaek and Manhyujeong**

Mukgye Seowon should be viewed not merely as a standalone historical site,

but in conjunction with the Bobaekdang Jongtaek, Manhyujeong,

and the spirit of integrity of Kim Gye-haeng.

Manhyujeong is a pavilion built by Kim Gye-haeng in his later years for reading and contemplation,

connecting to his spirit of integrity and purity, as expressed in his quote,

“If there is a treasure in my house, it is only clarity and purity.”

It looks even more beautiful with Kim Gye-haeng’s story behind it.

I hope you visit.

Exploring Gyeongju Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ISAIAH

I am traveling the world and creating beautiful memories. Do you know of any better places? I would be very grateful if you could let me know. I will also share the places here where I have had fun and felt happy. I will always strive to be an important guide for you. Please visit often. Always be happy. Thank you.

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