Government officials for royal tomb management system in the Joseon Dynasty

A study reveals that the Joseon Dynasty's royal tomb management system, initially staffed with low-ranking officials (able officials), underwent significant evolution from 1368 to 1785. Initially comprising two able officials per tomb, the system expanded and diversified due to administrative reforms, leading to a hierarchy of ranks from the 5th to the 9th grade. By 1746, the system managed 40 tombs with 80 positions, including roles like 'yeong' (leader), 'jikjang' (directors), and 'chambong' (assistants). This shift marked a centralization of lower-ranking officials in tomb management, reflecting broader administrative changes during the dynasty. The research sheds light on how bureaucratic adjustments influenced the governance of royal tombs, providing insights into the Joseon Dynasty's institutional development.

Han, C.-H. (2020). Government officials for royal tomb management system in the Joseon Dynasty. Humanities Studies East and West, 59, 135–168. https://doi.org/10.37498/hsew.2020.08.59.135