Seowon, the stronghold of local literati during the Joseon Dynasty, were private educational institutions established for honoring sages, conducting academic research, and nurturing younger generations. Boasting beautiful architectural aesthetics in harmony with nature, they served as the cradle of Neo-Confucianism, emphasizing academic debate and moral cultivation. In 2019, nine Seowon in Korea were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list for their outstanding universal value.