Ujeoseowon Confucian Academy

Ujeoseowon Confucian Academy is located at the former birthplace of Jungbong Jo Heon. It was established in the 26th year of King Injo of Joseon (1648) to honor Jo Heon, and received the royal charter name 'Ujeo' (牛渚) in the 1st year of King Sukjong (1675). After being rebuilt in the 34th year of King Sunjo (1834), it survived the decree to abolish Confucian academies in the 8th year of King Gojong (1871) without being demolished, and underwent a full-scale renovation over three years starting in 1973.

Jo Heon was born in Gimpo and was a disciple of Yulgok Yi I. He passed the civil service examination in the 22nd year of King Myeongjong (1567) and held various official posts. When the Japanese invasions of Korea (Imjin Waeran) broke out, he raised a righteous army in Okcheon and achieved merits. He also gathered about 1,700 righteous soldiers and, together with the monk army led by Yeonggyu, recaptured Cheongju Fortress. Later, he fought against the Japanese forces in Geumsan and died in battle.