Dreaming of Becoming a Wise King
Korea Times
10-15-2009 20:54
 Soldiers serve Prince Jangheon, far left, during a reenactment ceremony of “hoegang” at the Yeonghwadang Hall of Changdeok Palace, Waryong-dong, downtown Seoul Oct. 5. / Korea Times Photos by Shim Hyun-chul |
By Shim Hyun-chul
Staff Reporter
Numerous heirs to the throne during the Joseon Kingdom (1392-1910) studied in various fields to become an ideal ruler. The reigning king trained his heirs and offered them necessary experiences, making sure only the best could succeed to the throne. This preparatory education for royal succession was one of the most important tasks the royal court took care of, and many institutions worked on the ideal educational system and environment for future kings.
Daily quizzes called “beopgang” were carried out three times a day, while “hoegang,” lectures and exams that were conducted in front of the seoyeongwan (tutors), the king himself and other government officials, were held every month.
There were also “sodae,” classes in which princes would discuss important issues regarding the royal court and nation with the king, and “yadae,” for which the king would call on his wisest scholars at night for a special lecture.
The Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation is holding a special reenactment event called “Education for the Crown Prince During the Joseon Kingdom ― Dreaming of Becoming A Wise King” at the Yeonghwadang Hall of Changdeok Palace. More than 30 actors, including those who will appear as Prince Jangheon, the second son of King Yeongjo (the 21nd King of the Joseon Kingdom), soldiers and the seoyeongwans, will reenact the hoegang ceremony following tradition.
The event will take place every day at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. through Nov. 8. There will be no shows on Mondays. For more information, visit www.chf.or.kr or call (02) 3011-2154.
.
