Gimje Nam Spirit-path Stele

A sindobi, a 'spirit-path stele', is erected near a tomb to record the lifetime achievements of a king or high official for later generations. This stele honours Gimje Nam (1562–1613), a civil official of the mid-Joseon period and father-in-law of King Seonjo. He began his official career after passing the lower civil service examination in 1585, the 18th year of King Seonjo's reign, and later passed a special state examination, rising to the post of jwarang, assistant section chief, in the Ministry of Personnel. When his second daughter was chosen as Queen Inmok, King Seonjo's second queen consort, he was granted the title Yeonheung Buwongun. In 1613, the fifth year of King Gwanghaegun, he was falsely accused of plotting to place Grand Prince Yeongchang, Queen Inmok's son, on the throne, and was forced to drink poison, dying together with his three sons. Only after the Injo Restoration was his honour restored: a shrine was built in his memory, and he was posthumously granted the post of Chief State Councillor. The stele consists of a body set upon a turtle-shaped base and topped with a capstone. The turtle's head on the base turns backwards as if looking at the stele itself, an amusing touch, and the capstone is carved all over with dragons weaving through clouds. The stele was erected in 1624, the second year of King Injo, at the same time as his shrine was built by royal order.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Wonju, Gangwon

Designation

Cultural Heritage Material · 문화유산자료