The History of the Formation of Silhak in Modern Korea: A Preliminary Research

Abstract

Abstract:This article examines the historical trajectory of the construction of historical knowledge about Korean silhak. It focuses on the formation of modern notions of silhak and the invention of modern knowledge about silhak scholars. The following four points need to be taken into account in considering the formation of silhak in modern Korea. First, the relationship between the Way and the Instrument in traditional Confucian scholarship. Second, institution and civilization, as expressed in the phrases of gyeongse chiyong (administration and practical usage) and iyong husaeng (profitable usage benefiting the people). Third, growing interest in the historical importance of Jeong Yakyong’s scholarship. Fourth, consistent interest in the value of practicality (sil). This article concludes by identifying avenues for further advances in the study of the history of Korean silhak, to expand our understanding of the interrelationship between the modern consciousness of silhak and the historical knowledge of silhak scholars.