A cow in one’s heart, meeting poet Jo Ji-hun at Bangusan-jang in Seongbuk-dong
In the midst of a complex city, have you ever suddenly dreamed of the leisure of a poem? As you walk through the alleyways of Seongbuk-dong, you will encounter a special place where even time seems to have momentarily stopped, which is none other than Bangusan-jang. This is not just a building, but a place where the deep contemplation and traces of life of poet Jo Ji-hoon, who made a significant mark on Korean literary history, are fully imbued.
The name, Bangusan-jang, personally given by the poet, embodying the philosophy of ‘Bangwujeungmogwoo (放牛卽牧牛)’ which means ‘if you raise a cow in your mind, it’s no different from actually raising one even if you don’t physically do so’. From this name, we can glimpse a person’s inner world and what they aspire to. What story of the poet is hidden here?
From now on, let’s enter this poetic space together, feel the spirit of poet Jo Ji-hoon, and embark on a journey to retrace the beautiful legacy he left behind.
The Place Where the Poet’s Contemplation Resides, The Secret of Bangusan-jang
Bangusan-jang is the name given by poet Jo Ji-hoon, who was active in Seongbuk-dong, to the house where he actually lived. The Bangusan-jang we encounter today is a commemorative architectural structure created near the original house site with the concept of ‘The Poet’s Room’. This is a special space that expresses the poet’s spiritual world through architectural language, designed to allow for a deep understanding of poet Jo Ji-hoon’s life and literary traces.
Taking the eaves and floor of traditional Hanok as a motif, walls and floors were created, and basalt was used to create a unique yet nature-friendly atmosphere. Green grass is spread in the open space, and bronze cast chairs are freely arranged on it. These chairs are placed without a fixed direction, seeming to guide visitors to contemplate the poet’s space in their own way.
The Architectural Aesthetics of Bangusan-jang: Harmony of Tradition and Modernity
- Traditional Motif A modern reinterpretation of Hanok eaves and floors forms the basic framework of the architecture.
- Natural Materials Using basalt, also a symbol of Jeju Island, as the main material, it adds a unique texture and weight. This seems to symbolize the poet’s unwavering spirit.
- Open Space The open structure that blurs the boundaries between the interior and exterior of the building seems to show the poet’s broad embrace and free-thinking ideas.
- Free Arrangement The bronze chairs are placed without a specific direction, allowing visitors to sit, contemplate, or enjoy the scenery as they wish.
What is most impressive is that a door faces the direction of the poet’s original house site, and on the outer wall, his most cherished work is engraved. Through this poem, which best showcases the poet’s literary essence, visitors realize that Bangusan-jang is not just a space, but a point where they can connect with the poet’s soul.
Following the Traces of Poet Jo Ji-hoon, a Seongbuk-dong Walk
How to get there? Directions to Bangusan-jang
Seongbuk-dong has long been a neighborhood beloved by artists and literati. Bangusan-jang, located here, is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a recommended healing course in the heart of Seoul. Taking a village bus from Hansung University Station, or leisurely walking through the neighborhood to discover its hidden charms are also good options.
Around Bangusan-jang, Places You Shouldn’t Miss
Along with visiting Bangusan-jang, by also exploring other Cultural Heritage and attractions in Seongbuk-dong, you can enjoy a richer historical journey. In addition to gaining literary inspiration by following the poet’s footsteps, it’s also a great place to relax amidst beautiful scenery.
- Seongbuk-dong Former Residence of Choi Sun-u A Hanok where the traces of Hyegok Choi Sun-u, who loved the essence of Korean beauty, still remain.
- Gansong Art Museum As Korea’s first private art museum, it houses many important Korean cultural heritage items. (Currently open irregularly, so confirmation before visiting is required)
- Seongbuk-dong Gilsang-sa A tranquil temple imbued with the spirit of non-possession of Ven. Beopjeong, where you can leave behind a busy mind and feel tranquility.
- Simu-jang The house where Manhae Han Yong-un lived while resisting Japanese colonial rule, a place where you can glimpse his unwavering integrity.
How to Fully Experience the Poet’s Space
Tips for Visitors to Bangusan-jang
- Take Your Time Instead of just taking photos and leaving, sit on the bronze chairs, savor the poetry, and feel the poet’s contemplation. It is recommended to allocate at least 30 minutes or more.
- Choose the Season Bangusan-jang is beautiful throughout all four seasons, but you can enjoy even more picturesque scenery if you visit in spring or summer when the green grass is fresh, or in autumn when the leaves change color.
- Connect with Nearby Attractions By combining it with the aforementioned nearby attractions, it’s good to plan the entire Seongbuk-dong area as a historical and cultural exploration course. Comfortable shoes for walking are essential!
- Photography Visit during daylight hours when natural light is good and capture the unique aesthetic provided by the poet’s space in photos. The poem monument, in particular, is a popular spot for commemorative photos.
Seongbuk-dong’s Bangusan-jang is a poem in itself. In this space, where poet Jo Ji-hoon’s deep spiritual world and Korean beauty are sublimated into architecture, we hope you experience your own quiet and profound resonance. How about taking a moment in your busy daily life to pause and tend to your inner self?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What kind of place is Bangusan-jang?
Bangusan-jang is the name given by poet Jo Ji-hoon to the house where he lived during his lifetime, and currently, it is a commemorative architectural structure created to honor his spirit. It is a space where the beauty of traditional Hanok and modern interpretation are harmoniously blended, based on the concept of ‘The Poet’s Room’.
Q2. What is the meaning behind the name Bangusan-jang?
Bangusan-jang embodies poet Jo Ji-hoon’s ‘Bangwujeungmogwoo’ philosophy, which means ‘if you raise a cow in your mind, it’s no different from actually raising one even if you don’t physically do so’. This signifies the importance of inner cultivation and introspection.
Q3. Is it possible to view the interior of Bangusan-jang?
Bangusan-jang is an open-type structure based on the concept of ‘The Poet’s Room’, with walls and floors designed like traditional Hanok maru (wooden floor), allowing visitors to freely move around and view it. It can be viewed from the outside at any time without separate entry time restrictions.
Q4. Can I find poet Jo Ji-hoon’s works at Bangusan-jang?
Yes, on the outer wall of Bangusan-jang, the work that poet Jo Ji-hoon cherished most is engraved. You can directly encounter the poet’s literary essence and feel deep emotion.
Q5. Are there other places worth visiting near Bangusan-jang?
Around Bangusan-jang, there are many diverse attractions where you can experience Korean history and culture, such as Seongbuk-dong Former Residence of Choi Sun-u, Gansong Art Museum, Gilsang-sa, and Simu-jang. Explore them together and enjoy the charm of Seongbuk-dong.
