영랑생가, or Yeongrang's Birthplace, is located in Gangjin-eup, Gangjin county, Jeollanam-do. Kim Yun-sik, penname Yeongrang, was a poet active in the 1930s and 1940s, most famous for writing in the Jeolla dialect. The site features a few small cottages and gardens, and is lined by tall bamboo trees. The area is over 4,400 square meters, and was designated as a local monument in 1986.
[edit] Grounds
The path leading from the main road to the site is currently (as of December 2006) under construction, but will become a large pedestrian area lined with trees and flowers. Upon entering the site there is a small garden on the left with benches and recently-planted trees. Flowers line the walkway to the main structures.
 Yeongrang's old house lies beyond a small gate. Bamboo and camellia trees grow behind the cottage. In front of the birthplace is a small "남근" statue covered in vines, and a large stone tablet with his most famous poem, "Til the Peonies Bloom" inscribed. Opposite the cottage is a small peony garden, a small well, and a shed partitioned into three rooms, each holding several houshold implements. To the right is another small building which contains life-size statues of Yeongrang studying and writing. Along the path are a few small gardens and a large Gingko tree. Restrooms are found at the end of the path.
When exiting, turn left to visit 금서당, or turn right to hike Boeunsan. Boeunsan has two notable temples---Geumgoksa and Goseongsa---and is accessible via a trail that begins behind the apartment buildings that border 영강생가.
[edit] Getting There
영랑생가 is 400 meters away from the bus terminal in Gangjin-eup. The route is well-marked by signs.
[edit] External Links
|
