Publications
A Reexamination of the Temporal and Spatial Dimensions of Royal Ancestral Shrine Rites (Jongmyo) in Silla
Silla's royal ancestral rites, particularly those conducted at Jongmyo Shrine, were found to differ significantly from Chinese practices, with their scheduling and spatial organization reflecting indigenous Silla traditions. Unlike the Chinese system of four-season sacrifices, Silla's rites incorporated both regular and irregular ancestral sacrifices aligned with seasonal worship and local temporal concepts. The study also revealed distinct ritual functions for the Founder’s Shrine (Sijomyo), the Sacred Palace (Singung), and Jongmyo Shrine, which coexisted within the royal ancestral cult. Notably, the Singung retained its ritual significance even after the full establishment of the Jongmyo system. This reexamination, based on analyses of the Samguk Sagi and related sources, shifts focus from political lineage to the practical operation of these rites, offering new insights into their temporal and spatial dimensions.
A Study on the Significance and Outcomes of the National Gugak Center’s Overseas Performances of Royal Ancestral Shrine Music -Focusing on Global Expansion and Re-contextualization of Court Sacrificial Ritual Music-
Overseas performances of Jongmyo Jeryeak, led by the National Gugak Center, transcend traditional revival efforts to symbolize diplomacy, cultural exchange, and global solidarity. These performances re-contextualize Joseon dynasty ritual music as a 'living site,' acquiring multifaceted significance—diplomatic gestures, universally appreciated classical music, and prayers for peace. They catalyze cross-cultural knowledge transfer, inspire local artists, and foster Asian cultural heritage pride while preserving individual national legacies. The study reveals that such performances deepen musicians' artistic understanding and responsibility, enhancing the ritual's symbolic and artistic value. By analyzing these performances across diverse regions, the research highlights their role in redefining Jongmyo Jeryeak's global relevance.
Lighting Devices in the Jongmyo Ancestral Rites: From Offering Candles to Consumables
This study reveals that candles in Jongmyo Shrine's ancestral rites underwent a significant shift from being sacred offerings to becoming consumables, marking a transition in their symbolic and functional roles during the Joseon Dynasty and into the modern era. The research analyzes historical texts and records to trace the evolution of lighting devices, showing how candles were initially categorized based on wax composition and ritual significance, reflecting hierarchical and emotional aspects of the rites. By the late Joseon period, mixed-wax candles were phased out due to smoke and odor issues, replaced by lead-wax candles. Post-liberation, industrial-era lighting like oil lamps and electric bulbs took over, but candles persisted as ritual symbols, bridging tradition and modernity.
Six unrecorded macrofungi from the Royal Tombs (Donggureung and Seooreung) of the Joseon Dynasty and Jongmyo Shrine, Korea
A survey of macrofungi at Jongmyo Shrine and two royal tombs (Donggureung and Seooreung) from the Joseon Dynasty uncovered six previously unrecorded species, expanding Korea’s fungal biodiversity inventory. Researchers employed traditional morphological analysis alongside molecular sequencing to identify these fungi, revealing their presence in historically significant but ecologically understudied sites. The findings highlight the role of cultural heritage landscapes as reservoirs for diverse and potentially endemic fungal taxa, emphasizing the need for integrated conservation strategies that balance historical preservation with ecological research.
Weathering of Granite-Based Stone Cultural Heritage: A Multianalytical Review of Mineralogical Alteration, Microcracking, and Decay Patterns
Granite, though long considered durable, undergoes universal yet regionally distinctive mineralogical and microstructural alterations that drive its decay in cultural heritage sites. This review reveals coupled processes such as feldspar hydrolysis, biotite oxidation, and iron transformations, which collectively govern macroscopic decay patterns. By integrating multianalytical techniques—ranging from non-destructive to laboratory-based methods—the study provides a mechanistic framework for understanding granite weathering, illustrated through case studies like the 10th-century rock-carved Buddhas of Gyeongju Namsan and Jongmyo Shrine in Seoul. The findings underscore the importance of environmental controls and conservation strategies while identifying key research gaps, including standardization, climate projection, and machine learning applications for heritage science.
A comparative exploration of the solar cycle celestial alignments of Sajikdan and Templo Mayor
A comparative analysis reveals that both Sajikdan (Jongmyo Shrine, Korea) and Templo Mayor (Tenochtitlan, Mexico) exhibit celestial alignments tied to solar cycles, despite their distinct cultural origins. While Templo Mayor's 7° south-of-east orientation marks the equinox sunrise between its twin temples—linking it to Tenochtitlan's urban layout—the cause of Sajikdan's 29° clockwise tilt remains undocumented. Inferential analysis suggests a possible alignment with the winter solstice, symbolizing the yin-yang transition in Joseon Dynasty cosmology. This study underscores how distant civilizations encoded astronomical, symbolic, and political dimensions into their ritual landscapes, offering new insights into the intersection of architecture, astronomy, and culture.
A Teaching and Learning Method for Jongmyo Jeryeak Focused on the Experience of ‘Akgamu’ - Centered on ‘Yeongsin Huimun’ from Botaepyeong -
A novel teaching and learning method for Jongmyo Jeryeak, a UNESCO-listed Korean ritual music tradition, is proposed to enhance the integration of musical, vocal, and dance elements. This approach centers on the experience of 'Akgamu' (integrated performance) using 'Yeongsin Huimun,' a segment from Botaepyeong, and addresses gaps in current educational curricula by providing structured activities that progress from music (ak), to lyrics (ga), to movement (mu). The method includes newly designed musical scores, visual aids, and a culminating integrated performance, aiming to align with the 2022 revised Korean music education curriculum. This study offers a practical framework for educators to foster deeper engagement with Jongmyo Jeryeak's cultural and artistic dimensions.
Jongmyo as urban heterotopia: sacred memory and otherness in hypermodern Seoul
Jongmyo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site and ritual space of the Joseon Dynasty, functions as an 'urban heterotopia'—a counter-space that defies Seoul's hypermodern norms of efficiency and commodification while preserving sacred memory and hierarchy. The study reveals Jongmyo’s unique spatial logic: its secluded, horizontal order contrasts with the city’s verticality and openness, embodying 'observable tradition' while serving as a potential site of political rupture in daily urban life. By applying Foucault’s heterotopia theory and comparing it to Confucian and Shinto traditions, the research highlights Jongmyo’s role in spatializing sacredness, death, and memory, offering insights into how heritage sites navigate modernity.
Performing Jongmyo Jeryeak in VR: A Rhythm Game with Pyeongyeong
A virtual reality (VR) rhythm game prototype, designed to bridge the accessibility gap in learning Jongmyo Jeryeak—a historically significant Korean ceremonial music—shows promise in fostering cultural engagement and understanding among younger generations. By recreating a virtual Jongmyo Shrine environment and incorporating interactive performance on a Pyeongyeong (a traditional percussion instrument), the game synchronizes audio with visual cues, enabling users to experience the full ceremonial context of Heemoon, an opening piece from the Botaepyeong suite. Developed in Unity 3D using the XR Interaction Toolkit, this work-in-progress aims to preserve intangible heritage by making traditional practices more immersive and interactive, addressing challenges in cultural education through innovative technology.
"Understanding Jongmyo(宗廟) through Enshrining of New Ancestral Tablet at the Shrine of the Ancestors(祔廟) in the Joseon Dynasty"
Jongmyo Shrine functions as both a ceremonial space for ancestral worship and an archive of historical records. This study reveals that the enshrining of new ancestral tablets (sinju) in the Joseon Dynasty was not merely a ritual but a structured process involving the creation of new sinju, their installation, and the reordering of existing ones—a symbolic generational transition. The research also highlights Jongmyo's role as a repository for royal records, with an increasing number of documents requiring innovative storage solutions by the late Joseon period. Additionally, the study underscores the political significance of these rituals, particularly during the mourning period (sawi-sik), where the enshrining ceremony reinforced royal authority and celebrated the ascension of new rulers.
Analysis of Material Properties of Wallpaper and Blue-dyed Paper Used for Banja Ceiling at Main Hall of Jongmyo Shrine
Researchers have identified the use of natural indigo, specifically 'Jjok', as the blue dye on wallpaper and ceiling paper at Jongmyo Shrine's Jeongjeon Hall during the Joseon Dynasty. The study analyzed 24 specimens from four chambers, revealing that the paper was made from bast fiber with consistent physical properties: basis weight of 65.4 g/m², thickness of 0.1523 mm, and density of 0.4428 g/cm³. Additionally, a lotus flower pattern and swastika design were discovered during layer separation. The blue dye was confirmed through UV-Vis spectroscopy and gas chromatography (GC), providing new insights into the material culture and craftsmanship of the period.
Analysis of the purpose behind urban planning in accordance with the shifts in the centrality of Hanyang during the early Joseon dynasty
Urban planning in Hanyang, the capital of the early Joseon Dynasty, evolved dynamically in response to shifting priorities and geographical constraints. Initially designed according to Confucian and feng shui principles, with symbolic centers like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jongmyo Shrine, and Sajik Altar adhering to classical Chinese models, the city's structure later adapted to practical needs. A key finding is that Hanyang’s centrality shifted from internal facilities and roads to external territorial expansion, leading to disconnections between the core and boundaries. Adjustments, including gate relocations and the construction of the Fortress Wall, reinforced internal cohesion. The Jongru Bell Tower, initially positioned for visual centrality, was later relocated to a major intersection to emphasize transportation hubs, marking a shift toward functional urban planning. This study reveals how Hanyang’s development balanced symbolic significance with pragmatic considerations, offering insights into the interplay between ideology and practical urban design in historical East Asian cities.
Arrangements and Implications of the Central Military barracks during the Korean Empire
The strategic relocation of military barracks during the Korean Empire, particularly around Jongmyo Shrine and Gyeongbok Palace, significantly influenced King Gojong's political leadership and the eventual decline of the Central Army. This study reveals that the initial placement of barracks away from the palace during the Gabo Reform reflected the king's diminished influence, but their subsequent shift to Gyeongun Palace symbolized his reassertion of power. However, post-Russo-Japanese War disarmament left the Korean Imperial Army isolated and vulnerable, with Japanese forces occupying vacated barracks. The research combines historical analysis and spatial reconstruction to demonstrate how military arrangements mirrored broader political transitions, ultimately contributing to the army's helpless dissolution.
Implementation and Effect of the Crown Prince’s Jongmyo Shrine Ceremony in the 10th Year of King Hyeonjong’s Reign(1669) : The Fusion of Jujagarye and Royal Rituals in Late Joseon
A groundbreaking fusion of royal and Confucian rituals emerged during the 10th year of King Hyeonjong's reign (1669) at Jongmyo Shrine, marking a significant evolution in Joseon Dynasty ceremonial practices. This study reveals how the Crown Prince's Jongmyo Shrine Ceremony incorporated elements of Jujagarye, blending state symbolism with patriarchal Confucian rites. The research demonstrates that while some ceremonies were intentionally designed to integrate these traditions, others evolved through precedent, subtly embedding Confucian attributes into royal rituals. This dual process—both deliberate and organic—reshaped the structure and meaning of Jongmyo ceremonies, creating a hybrid form that reflected both state authority and familial hierarchy.
Research on Teaching Content of Jongmyo-Jeryeak for Elementary and Middle School Students
A novel approach to teaching Jongmyo-Jeryeak, a UNESCO-listed Korean ritual music, demonstrates that integrating appreciation, performance, and creation activities significantly enhances students' understanding of its cultural significance. The study proposes a three-tiered educational framework for elementary and middle school students, focusing on musical composition, social context, and modern relevance in the appreciation phase; separate training in music, singing, and dance followed by integrated 'harmony' performances in the performance phase; and advanced lyric-rewriting tasks to deepen engagement with traditional notation systems. This method fosters critical thinking and interdisciplinary connections, positioning Jongmyo-Jeryeak as a versatile tool for both musical education and broader cultural learning.
A Study on the Change Tendency of Jongmyo-Jeryeak as a Festival Play
Research on Jongmyo-Jeryeak, a ritualistic court music tradition at Jongmyo Shrine, reveals its potential to evolve into a dynamic festival play. The study identifies key elements—storytelling, accessibility, and musical innovation—that could transform this traditional practice into an engaging cultural experience. By analyzing recent performance changes, the research suggests scaling down the ritual, removing audience restrictions, and incorporating diverse musical collaborations to enhance its appeal. Additionally, it proposes reorienting education towards folk music and rhythm to sustain future relevance. These findings aim to position Jongmyo-Jeryeak as a significant festival content while contributing to broader traditional festival research.
A Study on the Examples of Pronouncing a Single Vowel "Gi" as a Diphthong "Gui" in the Jongmyo Jeryeak's Akjang
A groundbreaking analysis of Jongmyo Jeryeak's akjang lyrics reveals that the pronunciation of 'gi' can vary between a single vowel and a diphthong, depending on context rather than Chinese characters. This dual pronunciation method, validated through interpretation using the Jeonun okpyeon dictionary, suggests a nuanced approach to vocal tradition in court music, potentially reflecting deeper semantic distinctions. Among 21 instances of 'gi' in the lyrics, four specific Chinese characters were identified as candidates for correction based on this diphthong variation, underscoring the importance of precise pronunciation in preserving cultural heritage.
A Study on the Jongmyo Shrine and the auspicious sign of King Wonseong of Silla
King Wonseong of Silla (r. 681–692) challenged traditional royal succession norms by establishing a new dynastic lineage through the Jongmyo Shrine, despite being a collateral descendant rather than a direct heir. His reign marked the first use of the auspicious sign chuk-u (赤烏), symbolizing fire (Hwa-deok), which he employed to legitimize his rule and assert a distinct royal lineage overlapping with that of Namulwang and Taejong Muyeol. This study reveals how Wonseong, through rituals like manpashikjeok, sought to redefine Silla’s dynastic continuity, drawing parallels from Chinese historical precedents such as the Han Dynasty’s huang-ko-myeo (皇考廟) and wi-in-hu-ja (爲人後者) doctrines. The research analyzes textual sources like Hanshu and Yegi to demonstrate how Wonseong subverted expectations, elevating collateral ancestors in the Jongmyo Shrine—a practice later adopted by his successors, Aejangwang and Hundeokwang—to solidify his dynasty’s legitimacy.
Exploration on the Change of Jongmyo Akjang in Early Joseon Seen through Music Literatures
Early Joseon-era Jongmyo Shrine rituals underwent significant transformations in their ceremonial music, the akjang, marking a pivotal shift in Korean musical tradition. Initially, each ancestral tablet (sil) had its own unique akjang reflecting individual merits, maintaining musical independence and adherence to ancient forms. However, under King Sejo's reign, this was replaced by standardized compositions (Botaepyeong-Jeongdaeop), erasing the distinctiveness of each piece and expanding instrumentation, which intensified performance dynamics. This change disrupted the musical community, leading to fragmentation between court musicians specializing in different styles—a situation that persisted until King Seongjong's reign. Historical records, including Sejong Sillok Akbo and Akhak Kyeibom, reveal this evolution from formation to upheaval and eventual stabilization, though the original intent of 1:1 akjang-sil correspondence was lost, leaving lingering controversies.
Mong’oh Kim Jong-su’s Enshrinement as King Jeongjo’s Meritorious Vassal inside the Dynastic Shrine, His tablet’s Subsequent dismissal, Re-enshrinement, and Meaning
Kim Jong-su stands as the sole figure in Joseon history whose tablet was enshrined, dismissed, and re-enshrined within Jongmyo Shrine, revealing a complex interplay of political factions and royal decisions. This study deciphers the reasons behind these actions, highlighting Kim's long-standing relationship with King Jeongjo, his moral integrity, and his association with the Byeokpa faction. The research employs historical documentation, such as the 'Bae’hyang Gongshin Gyoseo,' to trace the political processes and implications of these events, shedding light on the dynamics of power within Joseon's dynastic shrine.
A Study on Goguryeo City
Research reveals that the formation of an ancient city in Goguryeo, a historical Korean state, occurred separately from the establishment of its capital. While the state/capital was established by the second century, the development of a non-self-sufficient urban area—characterized by population concentration and external dependence—emerged around the mid-third century. This study distinguishes between 'capital' (defined by royal authority and symbolic structures like Jongmyo Shrine) and 'city' (marked by economic interdependence with rural areas). Analysis of historical records and material data also highlights social hierarchies, urban-rural divisions, and a market economy, alongside evidence of urban residents' sense of superiority over rural populations. The findings challenge traditional assumptions about the timeline and nature of urbanization in Goguryeo.
A Study on the Arrangement of Music and Ritual Procedures for Jongmyo Shrine in the early Joseon Dynasty
Research reveals that the ritual procedures and musical arrangements for Jongmyo Shrine during the early Joseon Dynasty were not merely adaptations of existing systems but represented a distinct Korean synthesis. The study demonstrates how the Joseon court, constrained by neither the Chinese imperial rituals nor the Goryeo traditions, developed its own unique form of Confucian rites centered on ancestor worship. A key finding is that musical elements, particularly the new 'sinak' (new music) introduced under King Sejong, played a crucial role in defining this distinctiveness. The integration of ritual procedures and music, culminating in the standardized forms documented in the 'Gugjo Oryeui,' achieved both cultural differentiation from China and Goryeo while embodying universal Confucian principles. This study underscores the innovative process through which the Joseon Dynasty established its own ritual and musical traditions, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of Korean ceremonial practices.
An Analysis of the The Operation of Jongmyo System in the Late Silla Dynasty and its Aftereffect
A pivotal shift in the Jongmyo system during King Aejang's reign in late Silla Dynasty redefined ancestral veneration, sidelining King Wonseong while elevating four direct ancestors of the ruling king. This reorganization, involving two separate shrines and a five-shrine structure, solidified the late royal lineage but diminished Jongmyo's central role in national rites. The study reveals how this strategic change weakened the shrine's status as the backbone of ancestral worship, marking a turning point in Silla's political and religious landscape.
Political and Historical Significance of King Hyeonjong"s Queen Sindeok"s Jongmyo Chubu
A groundbreaking re-evaluation of King Hyeonjong's 260-year delayed inclusion of Queen Sindeok (Queen Sindek) in Jongmyo Shrine reveals its profound political and historical significance. The study demonstrates that this act was not merely a restoration of royal lineage but a strategic response to the controversial 'Giheayesong' incident, which had previously excluded Queen Sindeok on grounds of her being a concubine. Song Si-yeol's re-entry into politics and his advocacy for Queen Sindeok's inclusion were pivotal in dismantling the narrative that had demeaned her status. The study further illustrates how this inclusion was justified through the reinterpretation of historical records, including an edict from the Ming Dynasty, which emphasized Queen Sindeok's role as a national mother (guomo). This political maneuver not only addressed the controversy surrounding King Hyeonjong but also reinforced the legitimacy of subsequent queens, such as Inmok and Jangryeol, by linking their status to historical precedents. The spatial arrangement of rituals during the inclusion process reflects deliberate efforts to connect Queen Sindeok's legacy with those of other revered queens, underscoring its significance in Korean royal history.
Royal religiosity: Confucian thoughts in Joseon Jongmyo shrine
Joseon Jongmyo Shrine embodies Confucian values through its rituals, music, and architecture, reflecting the dynasty's intellectual thought. The study reveals how Neo-Confucianism shaped royal religiosity in early modern Korea, emphasizing concepts like filial piety (孝), loyalty (忠), and the Samjae philosophy (三才思想). By analyzing Jongmyo Jerye rituals, musical performances (Jerye-ak), and architectural elements, the research demonstrates how these traditions were creatively reinterpreted to serve as a state shrine. The findings highlight the enduring influence of Chinese philosophical traditions on Korean culture and governance during the Joseon dynasty.
Analysis of Types and Living Environment Characteristics in Seosulla-gil Area’s Alleys
A detailed analysis of the Seosulla-gil area’s alleys near Jongmyo Shrine reveals that these preserved pathways offer valuable insights into traditional living environments, particularly as they relate to residential activities such as rest, play, and laundry. The study found that alley distribution and diversity increase closer to Jongmyo, suggesting their historical significance and utility for residents. By examining the evolution of alleys from a historical perspective, classifying their types and widths, and assessing their current use—especially in improved hanok areas—the research highlights the importance of maintaining these spaces to preserve cultural heritage. The findings underscore the necessity of ongoing conservation efforts to retain the area’s unique historical characteristics.
The Era name enactment of King Jeonji of Baekje and Jongmyo Shrine
Archaeological evidence suggests that Jongmyo Shrine, associated with King Jeonji of Baekje, was established in the early 5th century (around 408 CE) as part of a political strategy to stabilize royal power and assert cultural identity. Unlike Goryeo and Silla, which had clear records of ancestral shrines, Baekje's adoption of the 'Jongmyo' system—centered on ancestor worship—was inferred from fragmented historical texts. Excavations at the Windack Fortress in Seoul revealed ritualistic structures, including a well (206-ho) containing pottery shards with damage patterns typical of ceremonial use. These artifacts, dating to the early 5th century, imply that Jongmyo served as a unifying symbol for Baekje's central and regional elites, reinforcing loyalty through shared rituals involving local produce like peach pits, symbolizing prosperity. The study bridges historical gaps by linking textual records with material culture, offering new insights into Baekje's political and religious landscape during its transition period.
The King Gongmin Shrine and Subok at the Joseon Jongmyo Shrine
Research clarifies the role and management of the King Gongmin Shrine (공민왕 신당) within the Joseon Dynasty's Jongmyo Shrine, revealing that its operations were overseen by a distinct group known as 'subok' (守僕). Contrary to prior assumptions, this shrine was not merely a type of 'bugundang' (府君堂), but functioned independently with annual rituals and monthly offerings. The study leverages colonial-era documents, including the 'Jongmyo Ilji' (宗廟日誌) and 'Daebang Hagui' (大房下記), to reconstruct its ceremonial practices and financial records, providing insights into both public duties—such as shrine maintenance and ritual preparations—and private rituals that strengthened communal bonds. Additionally, it identifies the subok's organizational structure through the 'Banghun' (房憲) and their exclusion from formal roles within Jongmyo, highlighting their unique position in maintaining both administrative and spiritual cohesion.
The royal Jongmyo (宗廟) composition and the Jongmyo system of the King Muyeol lineage (武烈王系)
A new analysis of the royal Jongmyo (宗廟) system reveals that its evolution in Silla, particularly under King Muyeol's lineage, began earlier than previously thought. Contrary to the assumption that the five-myo (五廟) system was fully established only during Munmu Wang's reign, this study demonstrates that the foundation for Jongmyo rituals—centered on direct ancestors of King Muyeol—was already in place before his ascension. The research leverages historical records and ritual practices to argue that the transition from a family-focused (家廟) structure to a more formalized state institution occurred incrementally, with the addition of divine positions (神位) over time. Notably, it highlights King Munmu's efforts to legitimize Jongmyo as Silla's central ancestral shrine through rituals and symbolic acts, solidifying its political and religious significance.
A Study on the Illustrations of the Sinjajeon: An Important Stepping Stone for the Modern Korean Dictionary
The illustrations in the Sinjajeon (1915), a groundbreaking Korean dictionary, represent a pivotal advancement in lexicography and visual representation of Sino-Korean characters. These illustrations, derived from ceremonial sources like Jongmyo Royal Ancestral Rites and ritual music texts, introduced an innovative approach by integrating them directly into the dictionary's text—a method unprecedented at the time. This study reveals that the Sinjajeon's illustrations not only facilitated the development of modern Korean dictionaries but also serve as valuable visual materials for understanding Sino-Korean characters. By analyzing which headwords were illustrated and their historical context, the research sheds light on the academic culture of ritual thought in Joseon-era Korea and its influence on lexicography.
Pursuit of a sustainable tourism policy by connecting historical sites and ancient conventions in Seoul
A sustainable tourism model for Seoul's historical sites, particularly Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jongmyo Shrine, and Sajikdan Altar, was proposed by integrating the king of Joseon's ceremonial walk with jikso activities—a direct appeal system. This approach aims to bridge gaps in historical narrative, enhancing visitor engagement while preserving cultural heritage. The study utilized the Smart Seoul Map to analyze site distribution and influence, identifying key areas for recreating historical scenes that link the palace, shrine, altar, and Cheonggyecheon Stream. By connecting these elements, the research suggests a framework for developing large-scale historical content that fosters urban culture while sustaining Seoul's historical integrity.
The Study about Destruction and Reconstruction of Jongmyo Shrine during Japanese Invasion of Korea(1592)
Jongmyo Shrine, a symbol of national identity during the Chosŏn dynasty, underwent significant destruction and reconstruction following Japan's 1592 invasion. The study reveals that while efforts were made to rebuild the shrine, financial constraints and famine delayed immediate action. Notably, debates arose over modifying the shrine's design based on ZhuXi’s theory, which ultimately did not proceed. This analysis highlights a pivotal shift in ritual understanding during the later Chosŏn period, emphasizing resilience in preserving cultural heritage amid adversity.
A Study on the Theories of Jwajowusa(左祖右社) and Jeonmyohuchim(前廟後寢) of an Ancient Jongmyo Shrine System
A groundbreaking analysis of ancient Korean architectural principles reveals that the spatial arrangement of Jongmyo Shrine, with its 'left ancestor right land' (Jwajowusa) and 'front shrine back residence' (Jeonmyohuchim), was not merely symbolic but functionally integral to ceremonial practices. The study challenges traditional interpretations by reinterpreting these layouts—specifically, the positioning of '社稷' (land and grain deities)—as auxiliary roles supporting rituals at the main shrine rather than standalone elements. By synthesizing classical texts like the Zhou Rituals and Han-era commentaries, researchers propose two plausible models for 'Jeonmyohuchim': one where both structures coexist within a single enclosed space, and another where they represent distinct domains—political-administrative (front) and residential (back). This work bridges historical records with architectural theory, offering new insights into the functional design of ancient Korean ceremonial sites.
A Study on the Tangibility and Intangibility Value Contents Influence Factor of Jongmyo Shrine Using Text Mining Analysis
A text mining analysis of Jongmyo Shrine reveals that its tangible and intangible cultural values are shaped by complex, interconnected factors. Unlike traditional single-disciplinary approaches, this study identifies key elements—both physical (tangible) and non-physical (intangible)—that have historically influenced the shrine's spatial formation. The findings highlight how cultural diversity and evolving information systems challenge conventional interpretations of heritage sites, emphasizing the need for multifaceted perspectives to understand their significance. This research introduces a novel framework for interpreting traditional Korean spaces by integrating diverse content influences, offering insights applicable to broader studies on cultural heritage preservation.
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