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Unesco
Designated as part of “Seowon, Korean Neo-Confucian Academies” in 2019
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Description
Seowon (Confucian Academy)
Designation: Historic Site No. 170 (May 28, 1969)
Era : Joseon Dynasty
Area : 324,945㎡
Dosan Seowon is a Confucian academy enshrining Yi Hwang (pen name: Toegye), one of the most renowned Confucian scholars of the Joseon Dynasty. In 1561 (the 16th year of King Myeongjong), Yi Hwang built Dosan Seodang on this site, dedicating himself to academic study and moral cultivation. After his passing, his disciples proposed to establish a seowon here. In 1572 (5th year of King Seonjo), they decided to enshrine his spirit tablet at Sangdeoksa Shrine, and construction of the academy began in 1574 and was completed in 1576. King Seonjo granted the name “Dosan Seowon,” and its plaque was inscribed by Han Ho, who was then considered the foremost calligrapher of the time. The academy is divided into two main sections: the Dosan Seodang and the seowon complex. Dosan Seodang, the oldest structure on the site, is where Yi Hwang once taught students. It reflects his scholarly values and his commitment to a life of simplicity and integrity.