history

The Kangso Temple built in the period of Koryo Kingdom (918-1392) is in Kangho-ri, Paechon County, South Hwanghae Province.

It was originally called Ryongun Temple and later renamed Kangso Temple in the period of Koryo in the meaning that it is a temple located in the west of the Ryesong River.

The Taehung Hall of the temple is a gabled building 16 metres long and 8.62 metres wide.

The whole building is gorgeously decorated in kumtanchong.

The interior and exterior of the building show pictures of dragon, phoenix, crane, lion, landscape, etc. and they are unique in portrayal and excellent in technique. Particularly, the façade of the interior shows six phoenixes hovering around a lotus flower that are so graceful, soft and lifelike.

The Taehung Hall of the Kangso Temple is a precious legacy showcasing not only architectural beauty but the specific character of tanchong, or colourful painting at that time.