Andong Dosan Seowon

Site details

Toegye Yi Hwang, who passed the state examination at the age of 34 and served four kings, was a great scholar of Joseon who systematized Neo-Confucianism. In 1561, he built Dosanseodang for academic research and training younger generations. After his death, his disciples and Confucian scholars built Dosan Seowon at the site of the Seodang to honor his scholarly virtues. Completed in 1576, the Seowon includes Dosanseodang and Nongunjeongsa, designed by Yi Hwang himself, Sangdeoksa, which enshrines his memorial tablet, and Jeonggyodang, the lecture hall of the Seowon. Nongunjeongsa, designated as Treasure No. 2106, is a well-preserved relic where young scholars from Yeongnam received direct teachings from Toegye Yi Hwang, who played a significant role in the academic and political world of Joseon. Additionally, Sangdeoksa, located at the rear of the Seowon, enshrines Yi Hwang’s spirit tablet, and Jeonggyodang, built in 1574 (7th year of King Seonjo) and restored in 1969, is a lecture hall for self-cultivation and education of students. The plaque with the name 'Dosan Seowon' bestowed upon the Seowon by King Seonjo was written by the famous calligrapher Han Seok-bong in front of the king.