Gwanghallu | |
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Known as Ch'unhyang's Hall, this pavilion (designated Treasure #281)
was originally called Kwangtong Pavilion. It was built during the reign of King Sejong
and renamed Kwanghan Pavilion (Gwanghallu) by Chong Injee. The building was burnt down during
the Jonggyu Disaster, but restored to its present shape in 1638. It has a lotus pond near the
front and its floor is set off the ground and surrounded with a railing.
Two attached buildings, east of the main structure, were added during the reign of King Chongjo
(1776-1800). The pavilion has unique cornices which combine two distinctly architectural styles.
The building is most famous as the legendary setting for the story
of Ch'unhyang and Lee Doryong, Korea's most famous love story.
Ch'unhyang of Namwon County Wolmae, a former kisaeng, lived in Namwon County during the reign of King Sukjong (Chosun Dynasty). She was a famous kisaeng known throughout the three southern provinces, and lived with Vice Minister Sung. Having no children of their own, they eventually appealed to the guardian spirit of Jiri-san. At long last, Wolmae conceived and gave birth to a beautiful girl, whom she named Ch'unhyang. The girl was kind-hearted and very fond of reading. Her good manners, chastity, and filial piety soon attracted public attention in the surrounding area. She later becomes famous for her love for Lee Doryong and her refusal of Magistrate Pyon's advances. All around Gwanghallu you can find photographers who will take your picture (for a price!) in traditional period costumes. 
Ch'unhyang's Shrine This shrine was built to celebrate Ch'unhyang's absolute faithfulness to her love, Lee Doryong. The entrance is named Gate of Single Minded Devotion. A tablet which reads "Shrine of Ch'unhyang, Virtuous Woman of All Ages" hangs at the center of the shrine where her portrait is also enshrined. Worshippers continue to flock to the shrine in the belief they may someday find a spouse if they pray within its walls. 
Wolmae's HouseThis house was named after Wolmae, Ch'unhyang's mother. It is here that Lee Doryong, son of a Namwon magistrate, married Ch'unhyang. The house shows a typical style house of that period. The inner courtyard has a small pond and garden. 
Ojak BridgeA lotus pond is formed by the waters of the Yochon River which flows through several valleys of Jiri-san. Built over the pond, Ojak Bridge has a prominent part in the love story of Ch'unhyang and Lee Doryong. It also represents the Milky Way where, according to the legend, the stars of love (Altair and Vega) meet. There is a saying that the couples who step on this bridge once a year shall lead a happy married life and their children shall be blessed. 
Hours: Summer - 08:00 ~ 22:00, Winter - 08:00 ~ 19:00 Admission: Adults: 1,600 won (Groups: 1,400 won) Youths: 900 won (Groups: 600 won) Children: 600 won (Groups: 400 won) Directions: Olympic Expressway, Namwon Interchange -> Downtown Namwon -> Express Bus Terminal -> Gwanghallu 
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