Cheongju Chungnyeolsa Shrine | Attraction Guide

Cheongju Chungnyeolsa Shrine (Chungcheongbuk-do Local Monument) enshrines the spirit tablet of Chungnyeolgong Song Sang-hyeon, the Dongnae district magistrate who died for the country during the Imjin War. In the 28th year of King Seonjo’s reign (1595), the tomb was moved from Dongnae to Cheongju and the shrine was built in the 2nd year of King Gwanghaegun (1610). It was repaired several times, becoming what it is today. Song Sang-hyeon’s courtesy name was Deokgu, pen name Cheongok, and posthumous title Chungnyeol. He was awarded the title 'Chungnyeol' for defending the nation with his death during a national crisis. Chungnyeolgong passed the civil service exam in the 9th year of King Seonjo (1576), held various important posts, and became Dongnae magistrate in the 24th year of Seonjo (1591). When the Japanese army attacked Dongnae in April of the following year during the Imjin War after capturing Busanjin Fortress, he refused to surrender despite the assault on April 14 and died on the 15th fighting to the end. Even the Japanese generals admired his loyalty and buried him outside the east gate. Behind Chungnyeolsa are his tomb and a stele erected in Hyunjong’s first year (1659), and at the shrine entrance is Chungmun Gate, built in King Seonjo’s 28th year (1595). The current buildings, wooden tiled-roof house, three gates at the yard entrance, and stone retaining walls, date from renovations in 1980. In 2001, Cheongju City renovated nearby grounds, adding an exhibition hall and new shrine to honor Song Sang-hyeon’s patriotic spirit, creating a park where citizens can engage with history. Regular guided tours by cultural tourism interpreters are also provided.