Myeongguk Samjangbi Stele

Myeongguk Samjangbi Stele is a monument located below Gongbukru Pavilion in Gongsanseong Fortress, Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do. This stele is a monument of gratitude and praise erected to commemorate the achievements of three Ming generals—Admiral Yi Gong, Officer Im Je, and Guerrilla Commander Nam Bangwi—who were stationed in Gongju in the autumn of 1598 (the 31st year of King Seonjo's reign), the year following the Jeongyu Japanese Invasion, and defended the area 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 of the characters and buried it in the backyard of the Gongju-eup Office; after liberation, it was relocated to its current site. The monument consists of three steles, and the inscription states: 'In the autumn of the 31st year of King Seonjo's reign, 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 remain safe from the threat of Japanese pirates and 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-gae-gol History Park.