Feb 25 • 23:10 UTC 🇰🇷 Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

The Place Where Danjong and Eom Heung-do Seem Like They Could Wave Goodbye

The film 'The King and the Male Servant' presents a fresh interpretation of the tragic life of Danjong and Eom Heung-do, highlighting their story as it attracts significant audience numbers and boosts tourism in Yeongwol.

The historical drama film 'The King and the Male Servant' reinterprets the tragic story of King Danjong, who died at the age of 16, alongside Eom Heung-do, known for recovering Danjong's body. The film has become a major success, attracting over 6 million viewers within 20 days of its release, indicating a strong cultural resonance with the audience. The film's popularity is also sparking a surge in interest for travel to Yeongwol, where Danjong was exiled, as evidenced by a five-fold increase in visitors to Cheongnyeongpo during the recent holiday period.

Cheongnyeongpo, surrounded on three sides by the Seogang River and a rugged mountain on one side, is reached by a short boat ride. Visitors encounter the 'Danjong Eosoo' building, which features exhibits on Danjong's life and exile, designed to evoke the past. Although it appears to be an ancient hanok (traditional Korean house), it was actually built in 1996 to recreate the original home that was lost due to a flood in 1457. This reconstruction is supported by historical evidence, including a stone monument indicating the location of Danjong's former residence.

Among the attractions at Cheongnyeongpo is the 'Eom Heung-do Pine Tree,' named for its shape resembling the loyal Eom Heung-do. Another notable sight is the 'Gwaneum Song,' a natural monument estimated to be 600 years old, which is associated with a legend that it cried daily while watching the young king. Additionally, visitors can find the 'Manghyang Tower,' built by Danjong in memory of his wife, Queen Jeong-soon, who was demoted to a commoner's status after his dethronement and spent her life mourning him until her death.

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