The Battle of Haengju is better known for haengju chima, or aprons, used by civilian women to transport rocks to fend off the Japanese invaders. One of the three major battles of Imjinwaeran (Joseon-Japan War, 1592-1598), the Battle of Haengju was a huge victory led by General Gwon Yul. At the Haengju Fortress in Goyang-si, a festival is held every year commemorating the victory and remembering the lives lost.
The festival offers rituals and cultural activities. Rituals, as the key part, ream of dignity and solemnity, and consist of 4 parts. In the first, Gangshinrye, incense is lit and drinks are offered to convene General Gwon’s soul; in the second, Heonpye, the General’s name plaque is placed in a shrine; in Eumbokrye, the drinks and food used at the ritual are consumed by the rite holders; and in Sashinrye, proper respect is paid to the gods of four corners who look over the shrine (symbolized by a blue dragon, white tiger, red phoenix, and black turtle). Following the ritual are a variety of cultural activities including essay and painting contests and archery competition.
A chance to look back into Korea’s history, the Battle of Haengju festival is a popular draw for families with children. It is an event for school children to learn history outside of the confines of a classroom. The Haengju Fortress and nearby Lake Park provide a nice detour where nature and history converge.
Detailed information :
Schedule : March 14, 2005
Venue : Haengju Fortress and Lake Park, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi Province
Website : http://www.e-goyang.go.kr (Korean)
Inquiry : Tourist Information +82-31-1330 (Korean/English/Japanese/Chinese)/ Goyang Culture Center +82-31-963-0600 (Korean)
Organizer/Host : Goyang city/Goyang Culture Center
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