Traces of King Gongmin in Andong
While taking a walk, I came across “Jeosujeong,” a pavilion located on Mount Jeosu in Myeongnyun-dong, Andong. A signboard, hanging from the eaves of the pavilion, tells the story of King Gongmin’s visit.
The other day, when I took a walk to the historical Yeonghoru pavilion on top of a little hill, I noticed again the name of King Gongmin, who reigned from 1355-74 as the 31st king of the Goryeo Dynasty.
He fled there in 1361 to escape the Red Turban Rebellions (1351-66). Many people fled the capital due to war and found comfort while pausing at Yeonghoru.
Buseoksa Temple and Sosu Seowon in Yeongju are also part of the historical stay of King Gongmin, who appreciated the hospitality of the people of Yeongju and Andong.
I often observe the presence of King Gongmin's name in historical sites. As a king, he pushed for various reforms through the independence policy with the help of Princess Noguk of the Mongol’s Yuan Dynasty.
When King Gongmin stayed with the imperial family of the Yuan Dynasty for some time, Princess Noguk fell in love with him. She was therefore willing to cooperate with his reform politics. Together, the two opposed the Yuan Dynasty and fostered neo-Confucian scholars.
Unfortunately, Princess Noguk passed away in 1365 due to complications during childbirth. King Gongmin was overwhelmed with deep sorrow over the death of his beloved wife. He couldn’t overcome his loss. As a result, he stood at a turning point in his life and lived a prodigal life.
Reflecting on this, I wrote the following poem:
Ascending Jeosujeong, / King Gongmin caught his breath. / Gathering the strength to leave, / he returned after three years. / But he did not forget Andong, / the peaceful place in the east.
Standing at a turning point, / he lost his beloved Princess Noguk. / So, he could not carry on his will / and failed in the reform. / But he became a hidden seed / that let Joseon arise.
His love for Princess Noguk made many things possible. Love inspired and directed King Gongmin to reform the country. However, when she passed, he lost his inner power of self-control and the sense of discernment.
In Andong, people still celebrate the Princess Noguk Festival in May every year in memory of her lofty and devoted love for King Gongmin.
Love is so powerful, enduring and everlasting. True love is remembered again and again throughout all these years. Let love be purified and inspired by the truth.
“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails … So, faith, hope, love remain, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:7-8,13)
The author is a member of the Daughters of St. Paul (Figlie di San Paolo) living and giving the good news to the world by means of social communication. Learn more about the congregation at fsp.pauline.or.kr.