Gangdeoksa

Seowon were private educational institutions established during the Joseon Dynasty to hold memorial rites for outstanding Confucian scholars and to educate local residents. Gangdeoksa, also called Gangdeokseowon, was established in 1846 (the 12th year of King Heonjong of Joseon) through the cooperation of descendants, enshrining the progenitor Janggyeonggong Choi Sajeon, as well as Choi Pyo, Choi Bu, and Choi Geukchung. Choi Sajeon was a figure who was proficient in martial arts from a young age, served several kings over generations, and during the reign of King Injong of Goryeo, suppressed the rebellion of Yi Ja-gyeom, preserving the nation and elevating the honor of Gangjin. Within the grounds, there remain the outer three gates, inner three gates, Gangdeokseowon, Hyoinjae, Gangdeoksa myojeongbi, Gangdeoksa housing the ancestral tablets, Gwansewi, and Manguiwi, among others. Memorial rites are held annually on the 15th day of the 3rd lunar month and the 15th day of the 10th lunar month. Address: 199-39 Hora-gil, Gundong-myeon, Gangjin-gun, Gwangju Special Metropolitan City, Jeollanam-do