Have you found the Saboksi monument? This office, during the Joseon Dynasty, handled horse-related affairs. This area signifies two pivotal revolutions: the establishment of Joseon and the 4.19 Revolution.Joseon referred to its establishment as a 'revolution.' Unlike the modern meaning, it implied a celestial decree where the royal lineage changed. It denoted a ‘Dynastic Revolution,' signifying the shift from the Wang family to the Yi family in the royal line. Joseon justified its founding through this narrative. This transformation wasn't just a change of country from Goryeo to Joseon, but a significant societal shift from aristocracy to a nation governed by the Confucian elite. The architect behind the Dynastic Revolution, Jeong Dojeon, resided right here at the site of Saboksi. This place holds a remarkable story.
Jeong Dojeon played a crucial role in establishing Joseon, yet he faced persistent accusations of treason until King Gojong's era. King Taejong was the one who branded Jeong Dojeon a traitor. Jeong Dojeon's choice of Bang-seok as the prince to succeed King Taejo triggered King Taejong, whose name is Yi Bang-won's strife and ascent to power. This infamous First Strife of Princes resulted in the deaths of Jeong Dojeon and Bang-seok, while King Taejo abdicated the throne. Though not labeled a revolution, it was a significant event that altered the early history of Joseon. It was during this period that King Taejong established Saboksi on the very site where Jeong Dojeon's residence stood. Politics and power can be both ever-evolving and ruthless.

The tragic incident during the 4.19 Revolution occurred here. At that time, this area housed Suseong Gungmin School, now recognized as Suseong Elementary School. One elementary student witnessed the revolution while returning home from school. Despite being young, the student recognized the righteousness of the revolution and expressed support. Tragically, the child was struck by a bullet fired by the police and lost his life. Jeon Hanseung, a 6th-grade student at Suseong Elementary School, now rests at the 4.19 National Cemetery, tomb number 195, remembered as a young martyr.
In mourning their young friend's loss, students from Suseong Elementary School gathered and crafted banners, joining the protests. Their banners conveyed messages like, 'Soldiers, don't point your guns at our parents and siblings! We fight for democratic justice!' Despite the sacrifice of the young student, others joined the protests. During the 4.19 Revolution, besides Jeon Hanseung, four other elementary students from Seoul and Busan lost their lives due to gunfire.

Now, let's head to the next destination. Our next stop is in front of the Youngpoong Bookstore, the statue of General Jeon Bongjun.