This stele was erected to commemorate the life and achievements of Buddhist Monk Jeunggak (originally named Hong Cheok), who established the Silsangsa Temple Sect under the Zen Order of Gusan upon his return from Tang China in 826 (the first year of the reign of King Heungdoek of the Silla Dynasty).
The main part of the stele has been lost, leaving only the tortoise-shaped pedestal and headless-dragon ornamental capstone. Unlike other steles, instead of the head of dragon, the pedestal features a tortoise’s head rather than a dragon’s. The ornamental capstone is regarded as an excellent work of the same overall standard as the Stele for King Taejong Muyeol in Gyeongju. The inscription at the center of the ornamental capstone reads, "The Stele for Eungnyo."
Estimated to date back to the middle of the ninth century, the stele exhibits the same general style as the Stele for King Taejong Muyeol, and reflects the traditional style of Korean stone steles. The Stupa of Buddhist Monk Jeunggak at Silsangsa Temple (Treasure No. 38) stands behind the stele.