Wolcheonseodang

About this place

Wolcheonseodang, designated as a Monument of Gyeongsangbuk-do, is a village study hall built by Jo Mok (1524-1606, pen name Wolcheon) to train younger generations. Jo Mok studied under Toegye Yi Hwang and passed the saengwon (classics licentiate) examination in the 7th year of King Myeongjong (1552), but he declined various official posts and devoted himself solely to scholarship while serving closely at Yi Hwang's side. During the Japanese invasion of 1592 (Imjin War), he raised a volunteer army together with his younger brother and two sons, and among Yi Hwang's disciples he was the only one enshrined in the Sangdeoksa of Dosan Seowon. Built in the 34th year of King Jungjong (1539), this study hall measures 4 bays across the front and 2 bays on the side, and its roof is a hip-and-gable roof that resembles the Chinese character for 'eight' (八) when seen from the side. The central 2 bays form a wooden-floored hall, with heated ondol rooms placed on either side. The signboard reading 'Wolcheonseodang' is in Yi Hwang's own hand.