Hyeonchungsa Shrine

About this place

Hyeonchungsa is a shrine dedicated to Admiral Yi Sun-sin, known by his posthumous title Chungmugong, the hero who saved the nation during the Imjin War (Japanese invasions of 1592). It was first built in 1706 (the 32nd year of King Sukjong). In 1932, the Yi Chungmugong Historic Site Preservation Society was formed and rebuilt the shrine, and from 1966 to 1974 the government consecrated the site and designated it a Historic Site. Here are preserved a portrait of Admiral Yi Sun-sin and the Sipgyeongdo, a set of paintings recording his life; there is also the Chungmugong Yi Sun-sin Memorial Hall, a history-themed hall built to collect, exhibit, and provide education on related relics such as the War Diary (Nanjung ilgi, a National Treasure) and his long sword (a Treasure), as well as historical records of the naval battles of the Imjin War. In addition, there are the old house where Admiral Yi Sun-sin lived, an archery range, and a jeongnyeo (memorial gate for filial piety and loyalty). Guided commentary is available six times a day for groups of 5 to 30 adults, and an archery experience program is run in all seasons except winter. About a 15-minute drive from here, at Samgeori in Eumbong-myeon, lies the tomb of Admiral Yi Sun-sin. Nearby there are also Onyang Hot Springs, the Asan Gokgyocheon Campground, Yeomchi Reservoir and Chungmu Amusement Park, and the Mediterranean Village, which can be visited together on a linked tour.