The Letters Exchanged between Yi I (Yulgok) and Song Ikp'il (Kubong) Concerning the Kyŏngmong yogyŏl

Abstract

The purpose of this translation is to introduce the letters exchanged between Yi I and his friend Song Ikp’il concerning the Kyŏngmong yogyŏl 擊蒙要訣 (Essential instructions on rectifying folly), thereby identifying the role Song Ikp’il played in the making of this text. Most previous translators and researchers have been unaware that the Kyŏngmong yogyŏl circulated in a draft version that Yi I revised after intensive review by his close friend Song Ikp’il. This fact is evidenced by letters exchanged between the two in which they discuss the work. I provide translations of these letters to inform readers of the issues raised in the letters and call attention to the differences between the first draft and the published work. Materials in Translation