Exploring the Historic Eogye House in Ham-an
By Choi Hong-dae, 14th SNS Reporter
Ham-an Eogye House
Wonbuk-ri, Gunbuk-myeon, Ham-an-gun, Gyeongnam
On a quiet road leading to Ham-an, a small sign stands. If you turn in the direction indicated by the arrow marked 'Ham-an Eogye House (Jo Ryeo Relic)', the paved road ends, revealing a courtyard with stones scattered about, where low tiled roofs quietly rest beneath the mountain slopes.
The Eogye House is the residence of Jo Ryeo (1420–1489), one of the six loyal subjects of the early Joseon period. These subjects are known as the 'Sengyuksin', who maintained their loyalty when the young king Danjong was deposed by Prince Suyang. Jo Ryeo chose to retreat deep into Ham-an, and his pen name 'Eogye', meaning 'by the riverside where fish are caught', reflects his desire to distance himself from the world.
Next to the entrance, a wooden sign tells the story of Jo Yeol (Jo Yeol), who began his career during the reign of King Gongmin but retreated to Du-mun-dong after the founding of Joseon. He later moved to Ham-an, enjoying the geomungo and poetry in seclusion.
Another sign shares the legend of 'crossing the river on a tiger'. When King Danjong was exiled to Yeongwol, Jo Ryeo prayed every night, swearing his loyalty. One dawn, feeling restless, he attempted to cross the river, and a great tiger appeared to carry him across on its back. Legends often convey feelings that history cannot capture.
The exterior of the house is elegant and calming. The combination of white plaster, black wood, and dark tiles leaves a deep impression without being ostentatious. The stone wall, built without smoothing the stones, blends naturally with the red clay and gray stones, and the tiles above bear the weight of many years. In the spacious courtyard, the sound of footsteps resonates clearly.
Upon entering, you find Wonbukjae directly in front. This building, with its wide open verandah, displays several plaques under its eaves. 'Eogye House', 'Wonbukjae', and 'Dado Eunpung' each seem to reflect the attitudes of those who stayed here. The vertical inscriptions on the pillars slowly reveal their meanings the longer you gaze at them.
Inside a small courtyard on one side, a plain stele stands. With no special decorations, the inscribed words seem to honestly convey the passage of time in this place. Beyond the wall, mountains extend, and the structure leading through the narrow gate to another courtyard creates a unique depth characteristic of traditional Korean houses.
Inside Wonbukjae, there is a simple red-painted table. Although the space is empty, it does not feel vacant. The structure created by the pillars and beams fills the space. The characters on the old plaque become clearer only as the light shifts.
It is said that Jo Ryeo wore mourning clothes and refrained from eating meat for three years upon hearing of Danjong's death. His life was not one of abandoning his position but of upholding loyalty. This house, where he lived, retains the essence of that sentiment. Its simplicity makes it feel even more solid, conveying significant meaning just by its existence.
In one corner of the Wonbukjae verandah, a guestbook and a pen are placed. The paper is held down by a piece of tile, blending naturally with the space. This modest yet clever paperweight adds charm to the old and quiet environment, where many have left their marks. I also take a moment to write a brief note.
The Ham-an County is working to preserve the historical value of Eogye House and utilize it as a tourist resource by creating an experience center. Last year, they held an event called 'Opening the Doors of the Old House! A Festival of Senses' as part of the local national heritage awareness project. I look forward to the stories and programs that will unfold here in the future.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/arahaman/224295169542
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