Myeongguk Samjangbi

Myeongguk Samjangbi is a stele located below Gongbukru Pavilion in Gongsanseong Fortress, Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do. This stele is a monument of gratitude and virtue erected to commemorate the achievements of three Ming generals—Admiral Yi Gong, Officer Im Je, and游击 Commander Nam Bangwi—who were stationed in Gongju in the autumn of 1598 (the 31st year of King Seonjo's reign), the year after the Jeongyu War, to defend against Japanese forces. Originally erected on the southern bank of the Geumgang River in Gongju, it was moved to Gongsanseong Fortress. During the Japanese colonial period, Japanese people damaged some characters and buried it in the backyard of the Gongju-eup Office, and after liberation, it was relocated to its current site. It consists of three steles, and the inscription states: 'In the autumn of the 31st year of King Seonjo, the year after the Jeongyu year, the three Ming generals arrived in Gongju, strictly maintained military discipline while sincerely caring for the residents, allowing the people of Gongju to be safe even under the threat of Japanese pirates, and enabling them to resume their livelihoods in the Imjin year.' Nearby attractions include Gongsanseong Fortress, the Tomb of King Muryeong, the Songsan-ri Ancient Tombs, Gongju Sanseong Market, and Eun'gaegol History Park.