Shin Saimdang and her son Yulgok Yi I are featured on the 50,000 and 5,000 KRW banknotes, respectively.
The name Ojukheon specifically refers to the unique, dark-skinned bamboo species surrounding the residence.
It is one of the few surviving residential buildings from the early Joseon Dynasty, having avoided destruction during various regional conflicts.
The complex includes the Gyeongjodang building, where Yulgok Yi I was reportedly born.
The site operates a dedicated museum hall specifically preserving the literary works and calligraphy of the Shin and Yi family.
The garden contains a 600-year-old crape myrtle tree, often cited as a landmark of the estate.
It was designated a National Treasure in 1963.
The layout reflects traditional Korean residential architecture optimized for the mountainous climate of the Gangwon province.
Ojukheon House is one of the oldest wooden residential buildings in South Korea and serves as the birthplace of the scholar Yulgok Yi I and his mother, Shin Saimdang. The site is designated as Treasure No. 165, reflecting its architectural significance from the early Joseon Dynasty. The name Ojukheon derives from the black bamboo trees that grow around the house. The complex houses the Ojukheon Municipal Museum, which displays artifacts related to the lives and works of the Yi family. Visitors can explore the preserved residential quarters, including the Gyeongjodang and Yulgeong-gak halls. The site demonstrates the transition of Joseon-era residential architecture and Confucian culture. Extensive grounds feature landscaped gardens and stone monuments. It remains a central site for understanding the intellectual history of the Gangneung region. The estate is historically significant for being the home of two figures featured on South Korean currency.
The front courtyard featuring the black bamboo backdrop and the traditional tiled roof of the main house.
Walk through the outer garden area to see the black bamboo clusters up close.
Read the historical descriptions provided for each building, as they detail the specific roles of family members in Joseon history.
Allow time to visit the museum annex, which provides necessary context for the historical relics on the main grounds.
Avoid skipping the museum gallery, as many historical artifacts are protected there rather than in the open-air wooden buildings.
Open daily, including weekends and public holidays; no specific seasonal closures identified.
Maintain a quiet demeanor inside buildings and respect restricted areas by not touching the wooden structures.
