[ O Chongbang (1552-1625) ]

O's family originally came from Haeju. He was born and raised in Tokpong-ri, Yangsong-myon. He took first place in the military service examination in the 16th year of King Sonjo's rule (1583). When Nitangae, a barbarian from the north, invaded Chongsong, O distinguished himself in the punitive war under the command of Yi I. The Japanese invasion occurred when O, at the age of 41, was appointed to a post in the general headquarters of the central army. Having recruited and trained thousands of loyal soldiers, he defeated the enemy and was conferred a couple of local government posts for his achievements. When the Japanese army invaded again in Chong’yu year (1597), O took up the task of receiving reinforcements from Santung Province of Ming and opened up a watercourse which has been blocked for more than 300 years since the Koryo period. He arrived at Yosun Harbor via nine fortresses from Shindo to Pyongdo to receive the commander of the naval forces of Ming and returned home with them. He completed his duty of carrying 100,000 bags of rice provisions by sea, and was conferred several major military posts, including police chief, for his services. Afterwards, O performed his duties as Army Commander in three provinces from 1607 (King Sonjo's 37th year). When the attempt to confine the Queen Dowager gained force during the reign of King Kwanghaegu, he resigned and retired to his native village. When King Kwanghaegun was dethroned in 1623, he was reappointed to the post of police chief, and he then retired after serving in a couple of offices. When Yi Kwal’s Rebellion broke out the following year, he attended on the king to Kongju. He led a quiet life in his hometown for the rest of his days and died at the age of 74.