Park Ji-won Voices for Realism and Reform in Joseon Korea
Park Ji-won (1737-1805) was a leading writer and reform-minded thinker during the late Joseon dynasty. As a key figure in the Silhak (practical learning) movement, he believed knowledge and writing should improve people’s lives. He supported the idea of iyonghusaeng ? using practical tools and resources to bring about social and economic progress.’
Born into a scholarly family in Hanyang (now Seoul), Park received a classical education from relatives, including his grandfather and in-laws. Unlike many of his peers who pursued civil service careers, he focused on writing and studying. Later, he settled in Yeonam Valley, Geumcheon County, Hwanghae Province, and adopted Yeonam as his pen name.
In 1780, Park traveled to Qing China on a diplomatic mission for Emperor Qianlong’s 70th birthday. The trip exposed him to China’s vibrant cities, modern technologies, and diverse cultures. Inspired, he wrote “Yeolhailgi,” which vividly recorded his experiences. His fresh, realistic tone ? called Yeonamche ? mixed classical structure with everyday language. This unique style sparked both praise and debate in court.
Park’s interest in public welfare also led him to write “Gwanongsocho,” a farming manual that offered advice on planting techniques, tools, and livestock. Drawing from Korean and Chinese sources, the book aimed to help farmers improve their lives.
In his fiction, such as “Yangbanjeon” and “Heosaengjeon,” Park boldly criticized class inequality and outdated social customs. He believed writers should respect tradition while introducing new ideas ? a principle he called “preserve the old, create the new.”
Park Ji-won’s works remain essential to Korean literature. Through his insightful, reform-driven writing, he helped shape a more realistic and socially conscious vision of literature that continues to inspire today.
Sean Jung R&D Division Director teen/1744099714/1613367716
1. Why did Park choose not to pursue a civil service career?
2. What influence did Park’s 1780 trip to Qing China have on his writing?
3. Which of Park Ji-won’s fictional works criticized social inequality?
4. How did Park’s family background shape his early education?
1. How can learning from other cultures benefit a society’s development?
2. Should writers today focus more on real-world issues like Park Ji-won did?
3. Is it possible to respect traditions while still pushing for innovation?
4. What role should education play in solving social problems?
Park Ji-won (1737-1805) was a leading writer and reform-minded thinker during the late Joseon dynasty. As a key figure in the Silhak (practical learning) movement, he believed knowledge and writing should improve people’s lives. He supported the idea of iyonghusaeng ? using practical tools and resources to bring about social and economic progress.’
