Gimin Confucian Shrine

Located in Seoak-dong, Gyeongju, Gimin Confucian Shrine is the tomb of Kim Inmun (629-694), the younger brother of King Munmu. From childhood he loved learning and read widely; he was especially skilled in calligraphy, writing the epitaph for the stele of King Taejong Muyeol, and he was also accomplished in archery and horsemanship. His broad learning and outstanding talent and skill earned him the respect of many. In his twenties he travelled to Tang China, where he was appointed Jwaryeonggunwi Janggun (General of the Left Palace Guard); on returning to Silla he served as gunju (regional governor) and oversaw the construction of Jangsanseong Fortress. Skilled in diplomacy, he rendered great service in securing Tang cooperation for Silla's conquest of Baekje and Goguryeo, playing a major part in Silla's unification of the Three Kingdoms. He was serving in office in Tang China when he died in the third year of King Hyoso (694). Emperor Gaozong of Tang had his body escorted back to Silla, and King Hyoso posthumously conferred on him the rank of Taedaegakgan, the highest office in Silla, holding his funeral at Seoak. The tomb is a circular earthen mound 6.5m high, with no special surrounding facilities.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Gyeongju, Gyeongbuk

Designation

Provincial Monument · 시도기념물