The 'ojuk' bamboo on the grounds earned its name from its distinct black-colored stalks.
Yulgok Yi I, the scholar honored here, was a high-ranking official who proposed the 'Ten Thousand Words' reform proposal.
Shin Saimdang is the first woman to appear on a South Korean currency note.
The buildings represent the evolution of Joseon housing, transitioning from the early Ojukheon style to later modifications.
The site is designated as Treasure No. 165 by the South Korean government.
Ojukheon is the birthplace of the Joseon-era philosopher Yulgok Yi I and his mother, the renowned artist and poet Shin Saimdang. The site is named after the dark (ojuk) bamboo trees that surround the property. It stands as one of the oldest wooden residential buildings in South Korea, dating back to the early 16th century. The complex functions as a historic shrine and museum complex preserving the artifacts and calligraphy of the Yi family. It is notably featured on the South Korean 5,000-won and 50,000-won banknotes. The architecture displays the traditional characteristics of the early Joseon period. The site includes the Mongryeongsil room, where Yulgok Yi I was born. Visitors can view the Ojukheon Municipal Museum, which houses provincial historical artifacts from Gangneung. The grounds are landscaped with gardens and traditional Korean gates.
The courtyard in front of the Mongryeongsil hall with the backdrop of the traditional architecture and black bamboo.
Walk the perimeter of the outer wall to view the densest sections of the black bamboo.
Visit the onsite Ojukheon Municipal Museum first to contextualize the historical artifacts displayed in the residential buildings.
Allocate time to read the plaques near the Mongryeongsil, as they explain the specific layout of the traditional house.
Do not mistake the modern museum building for the historic wooden house; ensure you explore both distinct sections of the property.
Maintain a quiet volume within the wooden residential halls and do not touch the preserved historical artifacts.
