Management of Namhansanseong in late Joseon

Namhansanseong transitioned from a critical military defense base to a supplementary financial resource during late Joseon. Initially, it served as a strategic fortress after King Injo's resistance against Qing invasions in 1636–1637, with the royal court prioritizing its maintenance, defense systems, and ration storage. However, by the mid-18th century, reduced war probabilities led to its repurposing for national finance, particularly through the management of stored rations from nearby regions like Gwangju. Despite challenges such as poor harvests and corruption, the fortress remained a valuable resource, though its actual capacity was often exaggerated in the 19th century. This study analyzes official records to trace Namhansanseong's evolving role, providing a foundation for future research on its management and historical significance.

Kang, S.-H. (2023). Management of Namhansanseong in late Joseon. Institute for Kyeongki Cultural Studies, 44(1), 207–229. https://doi.org/10.26426/kcs.2023.44.1.207