Nongae

Nongae (c. 1574–1593) was a patriotic Joseon woman who sacrificed her life during the 2nd Siege of Jinju in 1593 by leaping into the Nam River while holding a Japanese commander.

Background and Early Life

Born in Jangsu, Jeolla Province, Nongae became the second wife of Choi Gyeong-hoe, a local magistrate and Righteous Army commander. When Choi took part in the defense of Jinju Castle in 1593, she accompanied him into the fortress.

The Fall of Jinju and Her Ultimate Sacrifice

In June 1593, after nine days of fierce resistance against 93,000 invading Japanese troops, Jinju Castle fell. Choi Gyeong-hoe and thousands of Joseon defenders perished. To celebrate their victory, Japanese officers held a grand banquet at Chokseokru Pavilion overlooking the steep Nam River. Dressed in fine attire and wearing heavy rings on all ten fingers to interlock her grip, Nongae enticed a Japanese officer onto the perilous rock below the pavilion.

The Legend of Uiam Rock

Embracing the intoxicated commander tightly and locking her fingers so he could not break free, Nongae plunged into the raging currents of the Nam River with him. The rock where she made her sacrifice became known as 'Uiam' (Rock of Righteousness), and a shrine (Uigisa) was later erected in Jinju Castle to commemorate her heroic patriotism.