Seongeup Village, Jeju

On the recommendation of Anmusa (regional pacification commissioner) O Sik, in the 16th year of King Taejong of Joseon (1416), Jeju Island was divided into three administrative regions, a division that continued for five centuries. Of these, Seongeup was designated in the 5th year of King Sejong (1423) as the eupchi, or seat of local government, of Jeongui-hyeon county, and it is notable for being both a mountain village and an administrative seat. Set on a cosy site, the village is dignifiedly enclosed by peaks of varying height surrounding it. The roads wind and curve, and at points where they meet, wooden benches and trees were placed to serve as resting spots and gathering places. The traditional houses of this village employ building techniques distinct from those of the mainland. They are generally arranged around two straight-lined houses in a few different layout patterns, providing valuable material for research into the folklore and culture of Jeju Island. The houses include Gaekjujip (National Folklore Cultural Heritage), the Go Pyeong-o House (National Folklore Cultural Heritage), the Go Chang-hwan House (National Folklore Cultural Heritage), the Han Bong-il House (National Folklore Cultural Heritage) and Daejangganjip, the former blacksmith's house (National Folklore Cultural Heritage). The village also contains many other designated heritage elements, including Ilgwanheon, the former government office of Jeongui-hyeon, a zelkova and a hackberry tree (Natural Monuments), Jeongui Hyanggyo, the local Confucian school, dol hareubang stone guardian statues, and thatched-roof houses, offering, alongside its simple yet charming scenery, a glimpse into the distinctive way of life on Jeju Island. This heritage site is generally open to the public, but viewing may be restricted due to the personal circumstances of the owner or others.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Seogwipo, Jeju

Designation

National Folklore Heritage · 국가민속문화유산