Head House of the Muuigong Branch of the Muan Bak Clan, Yeongdeok

About this place

The Head House of the Muuigong Branch of the Muan Bak Clan in Yeongdeok was completed in the mid-1600s by Bak Seon (1596–1669)—the fourth son of Bak Ui-jang, who rendered great service at the Battle of Gyeongju Fortress during the Japanese invasions of 1592—for his eldest brother Bak Yu. Backed by a low hill and looking out over the fields in front, it faces south, and the whole complex consists of the gate quarters, the main dwelling (jeongchim), the inner three-bay gate, and the shrine. The main dwelling is square (口-shaped), 10 kan across the front and 7 kan on the side; the men's quarters has a hip-and-gable roof and the inner quarters a gable roof. Although its structure has been partly altered through several repairs, it is a large-scale head house of considerable dignity—with the remains of a central pillar, the main crossbeam of the men's-quarters hall, and a wave-patterned strut in the upper part—in which one can discern the prestige of Muuigong and the architectural techniques of the mid-Joseon period. In front of the bulcheonwi shrine, a 370-year-old Chinese scholar tree that has weathered the years together with the old house is designated a protected tree. ※ The above national heritage is generally open to visitors, but viewing may be restricted due to the personal circumstances of the owner or others.