Exploring the Literary Heritage of Dangjin Pilgyeongsa
- Original source
- blog.naver.com

When you travel in Dangjin during autumn, there are places that offer a different atmosphere from the beach or cafes.
One such place is the Dangjin Pilgyeongsa located in Songak-eup.
This house was designed and lived in by the author of the novel "Sangnoksoo," Sim Hoon, whom you may have encountered in your school textbooks.
It is also the actual location where "Sangnoksoo" was written, making it an interesting site to explore.
Looking at the small thatched house, you can see it in a different light once you know its history.
Sim Hoon designed and built this house in 1934, which has been designated as a cultural asset of Chungcheongnam-do since 1997.
The name 'Pilgyeongsa' means a place where one cultivates the fields with a brush.
While it is special that a literary figure lived here, it is fascinating that Sim Hoon himself designed it.
It is said that he wrote the rural enlightenment novel "Sangnoksoo" here, and when you look at Pilgyeongsa, the historical context of the work naturally comes to mind.
Pilgyeongsa is oriented to the southeast, overlooking a vast field in front and the West Sea to the northeast.
Although the surrounding landscape may have changed significantly, it is enjoyable to imagine why Sim Hoon chose this location.
At first glance, it appears to be a modest old thatched house.
The house is a simple structure, shaped like a 'ㅡ', with five rooms in the front and two on the side, without any gates or additional buildings.
Sim Hoon created a large room as a writing space, conveniently arranging the living areas including a main room, a kitchen, and a bathroom inside.
Notably, it has both a bathroom and a toilet inside, which was rare for traditional Korean houses at that time.
While maintaining the traditional thatched house exterior, it incorporates a unique structure reflecting the living arrangements of urban homes of that era!
Visiting Dangjin Pilgyeongsa is more enjoyable when you take your time to walk around and learn about Sim Hoon and his era, rather than rushing through a large tourist site.
Throughout the outdoor area, there are stone slabs engraved with Sim Hoon's works and quotes, making it fun to read them one by one as you stroll.
This experience offers a different feeling from viewing exhibitions in a museum, allowing you to naturally engage with Sim Hoon's literary world.
In front of Pilgyeongsa, there are sculptures and photo zones commemorating "Sangnoksoo," perfect for capturing a memory of your visit.
The site also allows pets in designated areas, so you can explore the outdoor spaces with your furry friends.
If you visit Pilgyeongsa, consider also exploring the nearby Sim Hoon Memorial Hall and the Sangnoksoo Experience Classroom.
Instead of just passing by Pilgyeongsa, you can discover stories related to Sim Hoon's life and literary activities, including those tied to "Sangnoksoo."
This course is also suitable for families interested in history or literature.
Especially in the cool autumn season, taking a leisurely walk outdoors is delightful.
If you prefer a quiet atmosphere over flashy attractions, Pilgyeongsa is a great addition to your autumn travel itinerary in Dangjin.

Source :https://blog.naver.com/dangjin2030/224403619872
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