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Military Headquarters of Jeolla-do Province, Gangjin

강진 전라병영성 · Jeonnam · Neighbourhoods & streets

Jeolla Byeongyeongseong is a fortress located in Seongdong-ri, Byeongyeong-myeon, Gangjin-gun, Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Metropolitan City. It played an important role as the main headquarter of the entire southwest region of the military in the Joseon era during the Japanese Invasion of Korea and Jeongyujaeran (the 2nd Japanese Invasion). Built in 1414 during the time of King Taejong (17th year of his rule), the fortress spans over a 1,060m in length and has kept its original bottom base intact. Three Sugumun main gates, seven Ongseong, building sites, foundation stones, and 25 tombstones also remain. In addition, it is the best preserved fortress among the remaining fortresses in the Namhae area. Hamel, a Dutch sailor, drifted in the site from 1656 during the 7th year of King Hyojeong to 1663 during the 4th year of King Hyeonjeong in the Joseon dynasty and wrote a novel named ‘The Journal of Hendrick Hamel’ after visiting the area. His novel explained Korean policy, culture, and traditions of the time to the Western world.