Nonsan Donam Seowon

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Donam Seowon was founded to honor Kim Jang-saeng (1548-1631), a master of Yeohak. Kim Jang-saeng, who succeeded the thoughts and studies of Yi I, devoted himself to academic research and fostering younger generations. This Seowon was built three years after his death in 1634 (12th year of King Injo). Donam Seowon, consisting of educational facilities, memorial spaces, and annex buildings, includes Eungdodang, a large and rare auditorium among Seowon architectures. Eungdodang, the lecture hall where students were taught, is noted for its unique structure and detailed techniques. The 'flower wall' of Sungnyesa, where ancestral tablets are enshrined, also showcases the charm of the Seowon. The buildings, situated on a broad plain with Mount Gojong as a backdrop, exude a tranquil elegance, and in summer, the blooming crepe myrtle flowers within the Seowon add vibrant beauty. In 1871 (8th year of King Gojong), even when Heungseon Daewongun ordered the closure of over 650 Seowons nationwide, only 47 remained, and Donam Seowon managed to maintain its legacy.