Yeoju Hyanggyo

Yeoju Hyanggyo is a local educational institution from the late Goryeo to Joseon Dynasty, representing Yeoju-si and designated as Gyeonggi-do Cultural Heritage Material No. 3. Originally founded near Maam by Gajeong Yi-gok in the late Goryeo period, it was burned down during the Imjin War and rebuilt in 1685 (the 11th year of King Sukjong) at Jatnamu Hill in Hongmun-ri, Yeoju-eup. However, due to frequent epidemics in the village causing casualties among residents, it was deemed geomancy-unfavorable and relocated to its current site. The building layout follows the typical 'front school, rear shrine' style. Although not large in scale, Yeoju Hyanggyo well exhibits regional characteristics in the form and joinery of its building components. Today, its educational function has ceased, and only the ritual function of incense offerings in spring and autumn remains. One headmaster (jeongyo) and six to seven stewards (jangui) manage the site, which is not currently open to the public on a regular basis.