Amidst the Japanese Invasion of Korea (commonly known as the Imjin War) in 1592, General Lee Sun-sin was imprisoned, and it was at this crucial juncture General Won Gyun assumed the role of Commander-in-Chief of the Three States Naval Forces. However, his tenure was tragically cut short as he succumbed to severe injuries sustained during the Battle of Chilcheollyang, where enemy forces attacked the city of Busan. In recognition of his bravery and service, General Won Gyun, along with Kweon Yul and General Lee Sun-sin, was posthumously promoted to a 1st rank Seonmugongsin (Royal Certificate of Meritorious Subject during the 1592 Imjin War) in 1604, during the 37th year of King Seonjo's reign.
General Won Gyun's tomb is designed in a Danshilmyo-grave style, featuring a single burial mound. It serves as the final resting place for the general and his wife, Lady Yun of the Papyeong Clan. However, it is essential to note that in 1981, when his descendants undertook repairs on the tomb, significant modifications were made to its original form. With the exception of the Myopyo (stele with the name of the tomb owner inscribed) and Muninseok (stone figure of a civic officer), all the stone figures on the site were newly crafted during this restoration.
To the front right of the burial mound stands the Myopyo, a. This style typically features a headstone adorned with a dragon and a square supporting stone. W While the exact construction date is unknown, the style suggests that the Myopyo was crafted in the 17th century, adding to its historical significance. The headstone bears a beautifully carved depiction of two dragons facing each other in the clouds, with a wish-fulfilling jewel between them. This intricate artwork showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of the era.
The grave site also features a pair of old Muninseok, stone figures representing civic officers. These figures, created in the Yanggwanjobok style, present a unique fusion of traditional Korean design with Western influence, evident from their crowns and court attire. The soft expressions on their faces and the relative simplicity of detail suggest that these particular figures can be attributed to the early 17th century. This further emphasizes the tomb's historical and artistic value, as it provides a glimpse into the cultural aesthetics of that era.
Unfortunately, General Won Gyun’s body was lost during the battle, but his tomb serves as an important historical artifact of Pyeongtaek and stands out for its remarkable artistic beauty. The stonework at the site reflects the craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of the 17th century. The restoration efforts conducted in 1981, while altering the original form, were crucial in preserving this unique example of Korean tomb architecture from that time.
The tomb of General Won Gyun, with its historical significance, artistic elements, and modifications made over time, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. The myopyo and the muninseok exemplify the exquisite craftsmanship and fusion of cultural influences prevalent during the 17th century. As a result, the tomb is a treasure of historical significance in the General’s home of Pyeongtaek, shedding light on the cultural and historical context of the period and exemplifying the importance of preserving such significant sites for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
📍 San 82, Doil-dong, Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do
경기도 평택시 도일동 산82
📸 & ✏️ Ashley Stephens, Pyeongtaek Insight Content Creator
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