Of myths and legends: Queen mourns for executed lover
One of the buildings of the temple. Robert Neff Collection, 2016
By Robert Neff
Myths and legends were not restricted to the tales of Joseon kings.
When Danjong was exiled to Yeongwol, his young wife, Queen Jeongseon (1840-1521), was left behind in Seoul and entered into Jeonggeobwon ― the temple for noble women.
Her love for him seems to have been genuine and she deeply mourned their separation. It is said that every morning she would climb up a nearby hill (Dongmangbong) and look out toward the Yeongwol in hope of hearing from her beloved.
Images on one of the doors. Robert Neff Collection, 2016
Eventually, she did hear something, but it wasn't what she wanted to hear. She heard rumors that Danjong was to be executed and was determined to warn him. According to legend, she walked from Seoul to Yeongwol but arrived too late ― her husband had already been killed.
Most likely the trek to Yeongwol is nothing more than romantic legend. She, like Danjong's elder sister, Princess Gyeonghye, remained at Jeongeobwon.
According to Edward B. Adams, it was “here in the primeval forest among massive granite peaks inhabited by tigers, the queen's identity faded during futile attempts to locate her.”
Before her death in 1521, she asked to be buried in Haeju, near the ancestral tombs of Jeong Jong (husband of Princess Gyeonghye). According to Adams, the Jeong family had always remained loyal to her during her many years of tribulations.
The Stele of Jeongeobwon Site. Robert Neff Collection, 2016
The Stele of Jeongeobwon Site. Robert Neff Collection, 2016
Views of the temple. Robert Neff Collection, 2016
Robert Neff has authored and co-authored several books including, Letters from Joseon, Korea Through Western Eyes and Brief Encounters.