Narrow Access Road and Piled-Up Trash in Restroom Draw Criticism
There are growing concerns that the exile site of Wongyo Lee Gwangsa, recognized as one of the four greatest calligraphers of the Joseon Dynasty, is being neglected. This has brought criticism of the local government's complacent attitude toward cultural heritage management.
This exile site is located in a back alley of a village in Sinji-myeon, Wando-gun, South Jeolla Province. At the end of a narrow alleyway barely wide enough for a single car to pass, the site has become so obscure that not only outsiders but even local residents have almost forgotten about its existence.
The access road to the exile site of Lee Gwangsa, located in Sinji-myeon, Wando-gun, was narrow and damaged, making access difficult. Photo by Lee Jungyeong
Lee Gwangsa (1705?1777) is regarded as one of the four greatest calligraphers of the Joseon Dynasty, along with Prince Anpyeong, Han Ho (Seokbong), and Kim Jeonghui (Chusa). He began his exile in Hamgyeong Province and was later relocated to Sinji Island in Wando, where he spent about 15 years and eventually passed away.
The 'Donggukjintche' script, which he created during his exile in Wando, is considered the prototype of the most authentically Korean style of calligraphy. His book 'Seogyeol' has been designated as Treasure No. 1969 of the Republic of Korea. However, despite the site's significant historical and artistic value, critics point out that it has fallen into a state of neglect and has essentially become an eyesore.
During a recent inspection, it was found that the access road to the exile site was narrow and damaged, making it difficult to reach. There was no parking space for visitors, and even basic signage was lacking along the road. Trash was left unattended in the restroom inside the site, and weeds were overgrown around the area, indicating poor maintenance.
Trash was left unattended in the restroom inside the exile site, and weeds grew around it, showing signs of poor maintenance. Photo by Lee Jungyeong
Wando-gun had entrusted the management of the exile site to the village head, providing a monthly management fee. However, after a recent change in the manager, actual maintenance and inspections have not been properly carried out, and the site is gradually being neglected.
A local resident, identified as Mr. A, said, "I have a personal attachment to this place because I used to visit it often as a child. Even now, visitors come from time to time, but the lack of parking and the extremely narrow access road cause significant inconvenience." He added, "Lee Gwangsa was such an outstanding calligrapher that even Kim Jeonghui would have been envious. The county should take more responsibility in preserving and promoting his legacy."
In response, an official from Wando-gun stated, "We will visit the site to check for any gaps in management, and if any problems are found, we will reorganize the management system and review measures for the preservation and utilization of the cultural property."
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