Three New Heritage Items Designated in Jeonnam Province, Including the Wooden Seated Bodhisattva Statue at Yongamsa Temple in Hwasun and Yeongsujeong in Gokseong
Jeonnam Province has newly designated three heritage items that embody the region's history and spirit as provincial heritage, in order to systematically preserve and utilize the historical, cultural, and intangible heritage scattered throughout the province.
This designation serves as an example of Jeonnam's cultural diversity, encompassing tangible cultural heritage, natural heritage, and intangible heritage. It is expected to contribute to enhancing residents' historical identity and cultural pride.
Among the designated heritage items, the Wooden Seated Bodhisattva Statue at Yongamsa Temple in Hwasun (tangible cultural heritage) is believed to have been created by the sculptor monk Saeknanpa in the Honam region during the late Joseon period. The statue is notable for its angular facial features, lotus-patterned band decoration, and thick eyelids, all of which showcase a unique aesthetic. It is considered an important work for understanding the trends in Buddhist statue sculpture during the Joseon Buddhist restoration period.
The Yeongsujeong area in Gokseong (natural heritage) served as a space where seven clans of Gokseong practiced Hyangyak (a local community code) during the Joseon Dynasty, providing a historical record of community-led rural self-governance. The pavilion preserves the aesthetics and structural characteristics of traditional wooden architecture and holds significant architectural value as a representative example of Honam-style pavilions.
The Jeomam Daechun Byeolsinje in Goheung (intangible heritage) is a form of village-level folk faith ritual known as Byeolsingut, which combines ritualistic and artistic elements. In particular, the purification ceremony centered around the Nongak troupe and the function of mutual aid are distinct, making this a valuable intangible heritage that preserves the original form of community culture.
In addition, the name of Ban'gye Temple in Jangheung and its collection of artifacts has been changed from the previous "Ban'gye Temple Artifacts Collection" to reflect the integrated value of the temple's architecture and its artifacts. By preserving both the shrine architecture and family artifacts from the Joseon period, the province has strengthened the organic connection between the site's historical significance and its cultural heritage.
Kang Hyoseok, Director of the Cultural Prosperity Bureau of Jeonnam Province, stated, "The designated heritage items are not merely relics of the past, but living assets that are connected to our lives today. These designated heritage items not only embody the community's collective memory, but also serve as educational resources for future generations to reflect on the region's identity. We will continue to expand Jeonnam's cultural potential by promoting a balanced approach to preservation and utilization of these heritage items."
On July 4, Jeonnam Province announced the preliminary designation of a total of 12 cultural heritage items from 8 cities and counties, including Wando, Gurye, Yeosu, Gwangyang, Goheung, Shinan, Hwasun, and Haenam.
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