Silsangsa Temple

Jangseung are a form of folk belief, erected at the entrance of villages or temples to mark boundaries and serve as guardian deities preventing the entry of evil spirits. The stone Jangseung of Silsangsa Temple in Namwon are stone Jangseung that protect Silsangsa Temple, and originally, there were four of them by the stream. However, one was swept away during a flood in 1936, and now only three remain. The three remaining Jangseung are each named 'Daejanggun' (Great General), 'Onghogumsachukgwijanggun' (Guardian General Expelling Evil Spirits), and 'Sangwonjujanggun' (Upper Primary General). All three Jangseung exhibit a similar style, wearing hats on their heads, with bulging round eyes, pug noses, and large ears. Judging by the inscriptions carved on them, it is known that they were all erected in the same period, 1725 (the 1st year of King Yeongjo of Joseon). Jangseung are typically arranged in male and female pairs to achieve yin-yang harmony, but the Jangseung here are all in male form. The expressions of these Jangseung, which ward off evil spirits, are far from fierce; rather, they are comical and humorous. In the vicinity, besides Silsangsa Temple, there are attractions such as Jirisansannaedeul Pension Campsite and Jirisan National Park, allowing for combined sightseeing.