King Gongmin’s Shrine in Changjeon-dong is a small shrine dedicated to King Gongmin, the 31st king of the Goryeo Dynasty. Goryfveo, a Korean state founded in 918 by King Taejo, ruled Korea until 1392 when the Joseon Dynasty was founded.
Gongmin of Goryeo
Gongmin was born as Wang Gi on May 23, 1330. His father was King Chungsuk and his mother was Queen Gongwon. As a child, Goryeo was under Mongol rule. As Gongmin was a prospective future ruler, he was sent to the Yuan court where he was a royal hostage. After spending 10 years in the Yuan court, Gongmin became king after he married Mongolian princess Noguk at the age of 22.
Gongmin is often remembered for his efforts to reduce Mongolian influence during the Yuan Dynasty on Korean political affairs. After he became king at the age of 22, Gongmin launched anti-Mongolia reforms with the hope to regain national pride and independence. During his first year in power, Gongmin banned Mongolian customs, disposed of pro-Mongolia court officials, and took back land that had been incorporated into the Mongol Empire.
Following the death of Princess Noguk in 1365, Gongmin was never the same. His interest in governing the country waned. His diminishing power led to tensions with wealthy and powerful families and the Yuan court. Adding to his troubles, at this time, Mongol-led rebels known as the Red Turbans waged war with Goryeo. This tension led to the assassination of Gongmin by his own bodyguards in 1374.
Gwangheungchang
During the Joseon Dynasty, a storage warehouse known as gwangheungchang was located in this area. Grain and rice were collected as taxes by the government and were stored within gwangheungchang.
King Gongmin’s Shrine
The small shrine building located behind a gate and surrounded by a short wall features two rooms and a tile roof. The shrine seen today was built after the original was destroyed during the Korean War.
Inside the shrine are the portraits of King Gongmin, Queen Noguk, and General Choi Yeong. Choe Yeong was a national hero who fought against the Jo Il-shin rebellion, against the Red Turbans, and helped overthrow the Yuan Dynasty.
Gwangheungdang
Located next to the shrine is Gwangheungdang. This beautiful L-shaped hanok building is used as a traditional cultural space. In connection with King Gongmin’s Shrine, Gwangheungdang hosts a range of programs highlighting the significance of traditional Korean culture. This includes the display of regional historical artifacts and youth educational programs.
No information available for this sight.
Last Updated on Oct 21, 2023