Publications
An Analysis of Personal Name Structures of the Goryeo Dynasty in the Thirteenth Century -Focusing on Woodblock Personal Names in the Tripitaka Koreana-
This study reveals that personal names from the 13th-century Goryeo Dynasty, analyzed using woodblock inscriptions from the Tripitaka Koreana, follow four distinct structural patterns: fully sinicized names (both surname and given name), partially sinicized names (surname only), Buddhist dharma names, and native Korean names. The research identifies 42 surnames, including 'Gang' (姜) and 'Gong' (權), while noting that fully sinicized names with both surname and given name represent a minority (around 13%) of the analyzed sample. The study also highlights the challenges in distinguishing between dharma names and native Korean names due to overlapping structures. By systematically excluding later annotations, reconstructing truncated names, and removing phonetic marks, the analysis provides a nuanced understanding of naming conventions during this period, reflecting both sinicization trends and the unique practices of Buddhist monks.
Bibliographical Features and Buddhist Historical Background of the Goryeo Woodblock Edition of the Bulseol Bomungyeong Preserved at Haeinsa
A Goryeo Dynasty woodblock edition of the Bulseol Bomungyeong, preserved at Haeinsa Temple, reveals significant insights into 13th-century Buddhist scholarship and textual practices. This extract from the Maha-ratnakuṭa-sutra, attributed to Tang monk Bodhiruci, shares a textual lineage with the Tripitaka Koreana but includes occasional errors and omissions. Its scroll format—featuring four-sided borders, 36 columns of 16 characters each—and doctrinal focus on 'universally entering the inconceivable dharma-gate' aligns with Hwaeom School teachings on interpenetration and dependent origination. Comparative analysis suggests its creation during the Goryeo period, underscoring the coexistence of independent monographs alongside canonical texts. The study also highlights early scholarly interest in this scripture, as evidenced by Uicheon’s inclusion of a related commentary in Gyojang-chonglok. These woodblocks thus serve as critical artifacts reflecting the ideological diversity and Manjusri devotion practices of Goryeo Buddhism.
Characteristics of 13th-Century Korean Consonants Reflected in Variant Spellings of Personal Names on the Woodblocks of the Tripitaka Koreana ― Focusing on the Development of Aspirated Consonants ―
A groundbreaking analysis of the 13th-century Korean woodblocks at Haeinsa Temple’s Janggyeong Panjeon reveals key characteristics of Middle Korean consonants, particularly aspirated sounds. The study found that while aspirated consonants were most developed among fricatives and affricates, they lagged in non-aspirated counterparts, aligning with prior research but also uncovering traces of ancient phonetic patterns—such as the homophony between characters like '楊' (yang) and '良' (ryang). By examining variant spellings of personal names in the Tripitaka Koreana, researchers identified distinctions between alveolar and dental sounds, as well as the interchangeability of velar and palatal consonants. This work bridges ancient and medieval Korean phonology, offering new insights into linguistic evolution during a pivotal era.
Exceptional Cases in the Personal Names Inscribed on the Woodblocks of the Tripitaka Koreana and Their Implications
Research on the Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks reveals exceptional cases of personal names inscribed, challenging conventional assumptions about their origins. The study identifies non-carver contributors, such as '朴才', who engaged in calligraphic activities rather than carving, and unusual patterns like ABBCC and dual-name-per-block (一經板二人名). These findings suggest a more complex workflow in woodblock creation, potentially explaining variations in script and style. The research also introduces key concepts like '목판인' (woodblock person) and '일경판일각수' (one-carver-per-block principle), providing new insights into the historical and technical aspects of this UNESCO-listed Korean treasure.
The development of Hwaeomjong in Late Goryeo and Activities of Hwaeomjong Monks
Avalokiteśvara belief became central to Hwaeom practice during the 13th and 14th centuries, with monks like Chewon and Cheonhee systematizing its doctrine within the Hwaeom Sutra. This shift marked a transition from Ui-sang’s traditions, which were later adopted by the Seon sect after Cheonhee received authorization from Chan Master Linji in China. The study examines how Gyunyeo school monks, during the Mongol invasions, played a pivotal role in engraving and printing the Tripitaka Koreana Woodblocks, preserving early Hwaeom thought while distinguishing it from Uicheon criticism. Their efforts established Hwaeom as a leading sect in the Joseon period, though its definition became fragmented by the influence of later schools like Gyeongnam and Euichim.
Engraving of Avataṃsaka Sutra Woodblock Translated by Buddhabhadra and It’s Succession in Haeinsa(海印寺)
Research confirms that the Avataṃsaka Sutra woodblocks, known as 'Suchangpan,' were engraved at least five years before the Tripitaka Koreana project began in 1237. Analysis of 35 editions revealed that two were likely 'Suchangpan' and one (the 26th edition) showed strong similarities, suggesting a direct lineage. The study also identified key characteristics distinguishing earlier woodblocks, such as the absence of hinges, rough engraving at the bottom, and an index at the volume's start. Additionally, evidence from engraver marks, woodblock shapes, and residual letters on the backside confirmed that Haeinsa Temple was a major site for Avataṃsaka Sutra engravings from the late 11th to the 13th century, with Tripitaka Koreana serving as a reprint of earlier editions.
Fungal Distribution of the Janggyeong Panjeon, the Depositories for the Tripitaka Koreana Woodblocks in the Haeinsa Temple
A study reveals significant differences in fungal distribution between the indoor air and surfaces of the Daejanggyeongpan woodblocks at Haeinsa Temple's Janggyeong Panjeon. While 23 fungal genera were detected in airborne samples, only five types were common to both the air and woodblock surfaces. Notably, 58.3% of fungi identified on the woodblocks were not found in the air, suggesting surface-dwelling fungi may form microbial communities over time by accumulating dust. The research also highlights variations in fungal concentration and diversity between two buildings within the site, with Beopbojeon showing higher humidity and fungal levels than Sudarajang. This study provides critical insights into the preservation challenges posed by fungal activity in this culturally significant heritage site.
Printing of Haeinsa’s Tripitaka Koreana Woodblocks and the Avatamsaka Sutra:The Case of the Avataṃsaka Sutra (Jin edition) Vol. 53 Owned by Busoam Hermitage in Namhae
A rare and previously unrecognized woodblock print of the Avatamsaka Sutra (Jin edition), Volume 53, has been identified among the collections of Busoam Hermitage in Namhae, South Korea. This discovery provides new evidence that Haeinsa Temple had the resources and expertise to produce Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks as early as 1098, predating the official 1236 national project. The study employed codicological analysis—comparing script styles (書體), sequence (函次), and carver names (刻手名)—to establish that this volume shares identical characteristics with one of Haeinsa's four extant Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks, confirming its authenticity and rarity. This finding underscores the need to re-evaluate Haeinsa's classification system for these texts and highlights the print's potential as a source text for future restoration efforts.
A study of the Tradition and Transmission of In-gyeongsul(Woodblock printings Techniques)from the Tripitaka Koreana in Haeinsa Temple
This study reveals the unique tradition and transmission of woodblock printing techniques (In-gyeongsul) used for the Tripitaka Koreana at Haeinsa Temple, highlighting its historical significance and distinctive methods. The research systematically documents the intricate processes, tools, and preparatory steps involved in this rare practice, which has been orally transmitted within Haeinsa since 1968. By comparing these techniques with those used in Japan and China, the study underscores the temple's method's originality and cultural value. It also aims to preserve this intangible heritage through detailed recordings and photographs, offering a comprehensive understanding of a practice that has endured for over 700 years.
A Study on the Publications Owned by Magoksa Temple: The Historical Record and the Woodblock-printed Tripitaka Koreana Published During King Sejo’s Reign
A rare set of three volumes from the woodblock-printed Tripitaka Koreana, dating to King Sejo's reign (15th century), was identified among the collections of Magoksa Temple. These volumes—part of the Gojoseon edition—include unique texts not commonly found in Korea today, such as sections of the Dapanggangbulhwaeongyeong and Bulsohaengjan. Analysis revealed distinctive features of these volumes, including their large size (29x40 cm), yellow paper covers adorned with lotus patterns, and red silk thread binding. The study also traced Magoksa Temple's historical trajectory, highlighting its growth in the 13th–15th centuries, decline due to conflicts like the Imjin War, and eventual restoration in the mid-17th century, which shaped its current form. This discovery sheds light on the preservation of the Tripitaka Koreana during a critical period of Korean history.
Deterioration Characteristic and Conservation Methodology for Jangseok and Iron Nails of Duplicated Woodblocks of the Tripitaka Koreana in the Haeinsa Temple
Brass nails offer a more stable alternative to iron nails for fixing jangseok (wooden covers) on Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks, significantly reducing physical and chemical damage. The study found that iron nails accelerate corrosion due to redox potential differences with copper and brass plates, leading to deterioration of the woodblocks. Artificial corrosion experiments confirmed this, while long-term preservation methods are recommended for future research.
Investigation of Printed Copies of the Duplicate Woodblocks of the Tripitaka Koreana 2nd Edition in Haeinsa Temple and Analysis of Period of Manufacture.
A new analysis of the Tripitaka Koreana's duplicate woodblocks, housed at Haeinsa Temple and inscribed on UNESCO's Memory of the World Register, reveals that these blocks—numbering 211 in total—were likely produced in the mid-15th century. This finding refines previous historical estimates by examining 20 printed copies, distinguishing between unlined and lined woodblocks and analyzing Chinese character styles attributed to Jo Maengbu. The study suggests a possible connection to King Sejo of the Joseon Dynasty, though this remains speculative. By comparing printed copies from different periods, researchers aim to clarify the timeline of these significant cultural artifacts. Further examination of additional copies could provide deeper insights into their manufacturing history.
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