Choganjeong and Wonrim in Yecheon

 forest, pavilion

Choganjeong, ’Grass Valley Pavilion’, was built by Gwon Mun-hae (1534-1591, pen name ’Chogan’) in 1582 as a grass-roofed house.

Gwon was a scholar and government official during the reign of King Seonjo of the Joseon Dynasty who compiled "Daedong Unbugunok," Korea’s first encyclopedia. Gwon built the pavilion in his hometown after retiring from public service with hopes of enjoying a peaceful life in nature and avoiding government party strife.

The pavilion stands on a boulder between a clean stream and lush pine woods. This pristine scenic site gives one a glimpse of the spiritual world of Confucian scholars of the Joseon Dynasty. Scholars pursued the ideal of Muwi (Idleness Naturalism), the creative quietude of non-action, and the life of a recluse in nature.

During the Japanese invasion of 1592-1598, Choganjeong was burned down and was rebuilt in 1612. It was burned down again 1636 durring the Manchu War of 1687–1758. The present building was reconstructed by a great-great-grandson of Gwon Mun-hae in 1870 and given the name ‘Choganjeong’.

Wonrim is a natural garden near the pavilion, surrounded by a stream, a pine forest, and large boulders. Choganjeong and Wonrim sitting on 15 acres is a popular spot of photographers because of its beauty.

Choganjeong is Cultural Material #143.