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Korea's Pastimes and Customs: A Social History
- Genre : Humanities, Science
- Author : LEE E-Wha
- Publisher : Hangilsa Publishing Co., Ltd.
- Pub.Year : 2001
- Pages : 346
- Format : 210 X 148 mm
- ISBN :
 
In , the author examines the political and economic changes Korea underwent during the second half of the Joseon Dynasty as well as the games and customs of that period. In Part I, LEE describes in detail the prolonged political conflict along factional lines since King Sukjong, and emphasizes Tangpyeongchaek (‘policy of impartiality’) as one of the most important policy implemented during the Joseon Dynasty. As a means to put a lid on factional strife, Tangpyeongchaek was adopted by King Yeongjo. This policy aimed at appointing the most qualified persons to government positions regardless of party affiliation. As a result, royal authority was considerably enhanced during his reign although factionalism was by no means eradicated. Economic development in the second half of the Joseon Dynasty is examined in Part II. Agricultural technology underwent considerable changes (i.e., the technique of transplanting rice seedlings was introduced and reservoirs were created for irrigation). The improvements in farming methods contributed to increased productivity, and a new class of wealthy landholding peasants emerged. Along with the new class of landlords, private merchants were becoming more evident in the country. Craftsmen gradually broke away from government control and became private producers. In Parts III, IV, and V, the author discusses some of the favorite pastimes of the people of Joseon, and the customs of the period.