Dobong Seodang

Most of the Korean daisies have already withered, which is a shame, but with hardly anyone around, it's a peaceful spot for a walk. There are houses and accommodations nearby, so please be considerate.

October 21, 2025, at Gyeongju Dobong Seodang. The chrysanthemums are blooming in every color, and it seems there may be an event because of the flowers. Their scent is lovely, though there are so many bees that the buzzing feels a little scary. The back of the Seodang is especially full of blooms compared with my previous spot. Since it's a weekday, there aren't many people. The flowers are so beautiful, it's a great place to see them.

Dobong Seodang is still in use today as a homestay run by the social enterprise "Gyeongju Gotaek," which has managed it since 2010. It was designated Cultural Heritage Material No. 497 of Gyeongsangbuk-do in 2006. Originally called Chubojae, the memorial hall was built in 1545 to honor Hwang Jeong's scholarly virtue and filial piety. Hwang Jeong was a civil servant in the mid-Joseon Dynasty. The building wore down over time, and his descendants rebuilt it on the Chubojae site in 1915. Behind Dobong Seodang are numerous royal tombs, including that of King Jinheung, the 24th king who laid the foundation for the Unified Silla Dynasty. The Seoak-dong Three-story Stone Pagoda, designated Treasure No. 65, is also here. The old house has a tranquil, sumi-e painting-like setting, with beautiful flowers that draw professional and hobby photographers, as well as couples making memories. There are no regular special programs, but occasional concerts let visitors enjoy the setting's mix of old house, cultural heritage pine forest, and flowers. Walking through Seoak Village, a charming, quaint, friendly place, feels wonderfully restorative. The entrance to King Muyeol's Tomb, which is under construction, is free. You can walk there from the parking lot in about 5-10 minutes. There is also a small parking lot, and it's possible to drive to Dobong Seodang. Use the public restrooms in the parking lot before visiting. There is no convenience store, so it's best to come prepared.

The seven-building complex follows a seowon layout, with the school in front and the shrine behind. Yeoneojae stands out because it has two fronts, with hip roofs on both its south and east sides. Dobongseodang was rebuilt on the site of Chubojae in 1915, giving it the appearance it has today. Hwang Jeong-ju’s descendants first established Chubojae in 1545 to honor his learning, virtue, and filial devotion. Hwang Jeong passed the civil service examination in 1477 and held several government posts. During the turmoil under King Yeonsangun, he left office, moved to the countryside, and focused on teaching future generations.