First of all, we saw Tangpyeongbi and Hamabi. Tangpyeongbi is a monument that inscribed King Youngjo's handwriting. Hamabi is a tablet that indicates to get off the horse when you are in places such as palaces. Then, we saw Sinsammun that is divided into three gates. We also saw Dongsammun which is usually closed. As we toured around, we recognized there was a Daseongjon. In there, there is a spirit tablet of Confucius in the center. Dongmu and Seomu were a place to keep memorial tablets of scholars. As we walked, we saw huge two trees in front of Daeseongjon that are called Samgangoryunmok. It was called Samgangoryunmok because the right tree had three branches, and the left tree had five branches. Myeongryundang was a place where students had lessons. It has the center and the rooms on each side. The dormitory for students were Dongjae and Seojae. In Dongjae, higher people, usually from Han yang were there and in Seojae, secondary people were there. Gingko trees at Sungkyunkwan is over 500 years old. Its where Confucius taught his disciples. The restaurant for the students was called Jhinsa-Sikdang. The student would get one point if he attended twice a day. They had an opportunity to take the final test when they earn 300 points. Jongyeonggak was a library where books were stored. It was the only library in Seongkyunkwan. Yukilgak stored arrows and bows for the archery. Archery, horse-riding, writings were also important.
It was a fascinating experience to see how did males studied in Jo sun-Dynasty. I thought it would be stressful to take a test every year. I liked the Tangpyeongbi because I felt the caring of Youngjo towards the scholars. If I can come here another time, I would like to learn more about Sungkyunkwan. Thank you~
