Chapter 176
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Chapter 176
Episode 176: The Climax of the Reform (Part 1)
In the Giyu year, towards the end of the year,
King Sejong gathered his ministers in Geunjeongjeon and commanded:
Prepare to initiate the Household Registration Law[1] as planned in the reform.
https://mblogthumb-phinf.pstatic.net/MjAyMjExMThfMTI1/MDAxNjY4NzQ3ODI3MjE4.vWoUxXPvVLEAXwd9qE12zTfZhDioBTB2S5-1wzeUx4gg._wkF-Gqr0TqKDekUnW7S24_hveprdxtcG9kHg9OHsDQg.JPEG.unesco114/20061116151949762000.jpg?type=w420 (Identification tag)
We shall follow Your Majestys command!
The ministers replied in unison to King Sejongs order.
The Household Registration Law was not a novel concept introduced by Sejong; it was first attempted during King Taejongs reign but led to various side effects and eventually became obsolete.
The failure of the Household Registration Law under King Taejong was primarily because the identification tag, intended merely as an identification document, turned into shackles that restrained the people. In an economy centered on agriculture, the citizens had no freedom to relocate, and the identification tag served as a mechanism to prevent them from arbitrarily leaving their hometowns.
While the identification tag made it easier for Joseon to collect taxes and impose corve labor, it simultaneously intensified the suffering of merchants and lower-class commoners.
As a result, many started forging identification tag to claim the status of Cheonmin, a class exempt from certain duties especially military service, leading to the obsolescence of the Household Registration Law attempted during King Taejongs time.
However, Sejong was determined to give the Household Registration Law another try.
This time it will be different! This time!
Sejong was fueled with determination, reflecting on the failures of King Taejongs era.
* * *
With King Sejongs order, carts loaded with tools and materials for making identification tag, along with artisans, began to move across the nation.
I would like to deploy artisans and equipment in every corner of the country, but the situation does not permit it, Sejong remarked.
The ministers bowed their heads in agreement.
That is true, Your Majesty.
So, where should we start?
At Sejongs question, the ministers began to discuss, suggesting the optimal regions for the initial implementation of the Household Registration Law.
Unlike previous debates, this discussion was conducted calmly and ended with a decision to start the production and distribution of identification tags on a trial basis in Hanyang (present-day Seoul), followed by implementation starting from the Samnam region (the southern provinces).
Why is that?
At King Sejongs inquiry, Chief State Councilor Lee Jik explained the reason.
Due to the rebellion incident that occurred last autumn, a considerable amount of state-owned farmland has emerged in the Samnam region. To utilize these lands without missing the farming season next year, we need to find tenants. If the issuance of identification tags and the organization of household registers are delayed, we risk missing the planting season.
Sejong nodded at Lee Jiks explanation.
Your opinions are sensible. Then, lets begin the distribution of identification tags starting from the Samnam region.
We will follow Your Majestys command!
Thus, the distribution of identification tags started in the Samnam region.
On the day the artisans and officials set out, King Sejong summoned those in charge to Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Due to the lack of space, tents were set up in front of Geunjeongjeon, and several large braziers were placed to warm the area, where a feast was prepared.
The artisans and officials, seated in front of the lavish banquet, looked at the table with stern faces.
Wasnt there a saying, The day you receive Ministry of Taxation provisions?'
It seems this task will indeed not be easy.
Long live His Majesty!
The officials and artisans, who were grumbling in front of the banquet, quickly rose from their seats at the sound of the royal approach.
We greet His Majesty!
Receiving the bows of the artisans and officials, King Sejong sat down and gave a command.
Everyone, please take your seats comfortably.
As the officials and artisans sat down, Sejong began his address.
The task you all are about to undertake is of great importance. It is crucial for you to adhere to the schedule, as starting from the road construction, all policies of the reform rely on timely execution. I sincerely wish for you all to do your best.
At Sejongs exhortation, the officials and artisans responded loudly.
We shall devote ourselves wholeheartedly!
Then, since tomorrow will be the start of busy days, enjoy this evening. Let the music begin!
As the musicians started playing, the officials and artisans began to enjoy the food and drink.
The next day, the production of identification tags commenced in all areas of Hanyang.
Once the frames were properly combined, the artisan handed over the assembly to the next artisan.
The final artisan, upon verifying the assembly, poured melted lead into the largest hole among the corner screw holes and waited for it to cool before stamping the official seal.
After sealing, the artisan handed the completed identification tag to a waiting official.
The official receiving the identification tag called out the name written on it.
Born in the year of Gap-Sul, Han Pan-sul! Where is Han Pan-sul?
Here! I am here!
Pan-sul, who had been waiting, stepped forward, and the official marked the registry before handing over the identification tag.
Take good care of this. If you lose or damage it and need a reissue, youll have to pay 300 won.
Goodness! Thats expensive!
Thats why you need to take good care of it.
At the officials words, Pan-sul pointed to the glass in the center of the identification tag.
This has glass embedded in the middle?
To Pan-suls query, the official added an explanation.
Do you see the iron netting embedded in the glass?
Upon the officials question, Pan-sul examined the identification tag again. Indeed, there was a finely woven iron net inside the glass. The official continued the explanation.
That iron netting makes the glass stronger.
I see
And remember, this identification tag is a proof of your identity. Dont be careless with it. If some miscreant steals it and uses it for ill, you could face serious trouble.
Yes! I will keep that in mind!
Leaving the town hall, Pan-sul looked at the identification tag in his hand with a complex expression.
Its really peculiar. What is this really It makes me feel as if Ive become someone important.
The identification tag, with its expensive glass, seemed to imbue Pan-sul with a sense of unexplained pride.
Pan-sul scrutinized the identification tag, murmuring to himself.
Whose idea was this? Truly a marvelous invention
* * *
Indeed, the design of the identification tag was Hyangs work.
Simply carving wood takes too long, and securing materials is a problem
If the identification tag were to be made of wood like the previous ones, there would be many issues with preservation.
What would be better?
While pondering for a solution, Hyang snapped his fingers as a soldier passed by and saluted.
Thats it!
What Hyang remembered was the dog tags worn during military service in the 21st century.
Based on the design of the dog tags, Hyang made some modifications.
Instead of rubber, he wrapped the edges with metal, inserted glass to add a touch of sophistication, and finally, secured it with screws, covering it with lead and stamping an official seal to prevent forgery. Hyang presented this prototype to King Sejong.
Excellent! Lets proceed with this design!
King Sejong immediately approved the prototype upon seeing it.
* * *
The distribution of the identification tag began with King Sejong and was carried out methodically. After completing the distribution in Hanyang, the smooth progress of the identification tag distribution starting from the Samnam region was reported daily, and Sejong praised Hyang.
Your contribution is truly significant!
It was merely good fortune on my part!
Receiving King Sejongs praise and returning to the Eastern Palace, Hyang stopped by the research institute. Looking at the various devices on display, he mumbled to himself.
We have created so much. The problem is
Observing the empty spaces in the display case, Hyang continued.
Theres still so much more to make. I wonder if, a few hundred years from now, historians studying Fathers and my reign will criticize us?
Imagining the distant future, Hyang let out a wry chuckle.
Who knows?
A legal system established to enforce the carrying of (identification tags). It was implemented during the reign of King Taejong, the third king of the Joseon Dynasty, and was temporarily abolished before being reinstated in 1458, the 4th year of King Sejo, the seventh king of Joseon. It remained in effect almost until the end of the Joseon Dynasty. Under this system, those of the second rank () and above in the Dongban (Eastern Class) and Seoban (Western Class) carried a specific type of tag (), those of the third rank () and below and those who passed miscellaneous examinations carried another type (), scholars such as (students) and (licentiates) carried , and lower-ranking officials, commoners, minor clerks, and local officials carried a (small rectangular wooden tag). Public and private menials and temporary officials carried a (large rectangular wooden tag).[]
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Chapter 176
Episode 176: The Climax of the Reform (Part 1)
In the Giyu year, towards the end of the year,
King Sejong gathered his ministers in Geunjeongjeon and commanded:
Prepare to initiate the Household Registration Law[1] as planned in the reform.
https://mblogthumb-phinf.pstatic.net/MjAyMjExMThfMTI1/MDAxNjY4NzQ3ODI3MjE4.vWoUxXPvVLEAXwd9qE12zTfZhDioBTB2S5-1wzeUx4gg._wkF-Gqr0TqKDekUnW7S24_hveprdxtcG9kHg9OHsDQg.JPEG.unesco114/20061116151949762000.jpg?type=w420 (Identification tag)
We shall follow Your Majestys command!
The ministers replied in unison to King Sejongs order.
The Household Registration Law was not a novel concept introduced by Sejong; it was first attempted during King Taejongs reign but led to various side effects and eventually became obsolete.
The failure of the Household Registration Law under King Taejong was primarily because the identification tag, intended merely as an identification document, turned into shackles that restrained the people. In an economy centered on agriculture, the citizens had no freedom to relocate, and the identification tag served as a mechanism to prevent them from arbitrarily leaving their hometowns.
While the identification tag made it easier for Joseon to collect taxes and impose corve labor, it simultaneously intensified the suffering of merchants and lower-class commoners.
As a result, many started forging identification tag to claim the status of Cheonmin, a class exempt from certain duties especially military service, leading to the obsolescence of the Household Registration Law attempted during King Taejongs time.
However, Sejong was determined to give the Household Registration Law another try.
This time it will be different! This time!
Sejong was fueled with determination, reflecting on the failures of King Taejongs era.
* * *
With King Sejongs order, carts loaded with tools and materials for making identification tag, along with artisans, began to move across the nation.
I would like to deploy artisans and equipment in every corner of the country, but the situation does not permit it, Sejong remarked.
The ministers bowed their heads in agreement.
That is true, Your Majesty.
So, where should we start?
At Sejongs question, the ministers began to discuss, suggesting the optimal regions for the initial implementation of the Household Registration Law.
Unlike previous debates, this discussion was conducted calmly and ended with a decision to start the production and distribution of identification tags on a trial basis in Hanyang (present-day Seoul), followed by implementation starting from the Samnam region (the southern provinces).
Why is that?
At King Sejongs inquiry, Chief State Councilor Lee Jik explained the reason.
Due to the rebellion incident that occurred last autumn, a considerable amount of state-owned farmland has emerged in the Samnam region. To utilize these lands without missing the farming season next year, we need to find tenants. If the issuance of identification tags and the organization of household registers are delayed, we risk missing the planting season.
Sejong nodded at Lee Jiks explanation.
Your opinions are sensible. Then, lets begin the distribution of identification tags starting from the Samnam region.
We will follow Your Majestys command!
Thus, the distribution of identification tags started in the Samnam region.
On the day the artisans and officials set out, King Sejong summoned those in charge to Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Due to the lack of space, tents were set up in front of Geunjeongjeon, and several large braziers were placed to warm the area, where a feast was prepared.
The artisans and officials, seated in front of the lavish banquet, looked at the table with stern faces.
Wasnt there a saying, The day you receive Ministry of Taxation provisions?'
It seems this task will indeed not be easy.
Long live His Majesty!
The officials and artisans, who were grumbling in front of the banquet, quickly rose from their seats at the sound of the royal approach.
We greet His Majesty!
Receiving the bows of the artisans and officials, King Sejong sat down and gave a command.
Everyone, please take your seats comfortably.
As the officials and artisans sat down, Sejong began his address.
The task you all are about to undertake is of great importance. It is crucial for you to adhere to the schedule, as starting from the road construction, all policies of the reform rely on timely execution. I sincerely wish for you all to do your best.
At Sejongs exhortation, the officials and artisans responded loudly.
We shall devote ourselves wholeheartedly!
Then, since tomorrow will be the start of busy days, enjoy this evening. Let the music begin!
As the musicians started playing, the officials and artisans began to enjoy the food and drink.
The next day, the production of identification tags commenced in all areas of Hanyang.
Once the frames were properly combined, the artisan handed over the assembly to the next artisan.
The final artisan, upon verifying the assembly, poured melted lead into the largest hole among the corner screw holes and waited for it to cool before stamping the official seal.
After sealing, the artisan handed the completed identification tag to a waiting official.
The official receiving the identification tag called out the name written on it.
Born in the year of Gap-Sul, Han Pan-sul! Where is Han Pan-sul?
Here! I am here!
Pan-sul, who had been waiting, stepped forward, and the official marked the registry before handing over the identification tag.
Take good care of this. If you lose or damage it and need a reissue, youll have to pay 300 won.
Goodness! Thats expensive!
Thats why you need to take good care of it.
At the officials words, Pan-sul pointed to the glass in the center of the identification tag.
This has glass embedded in the middle?
To Pan-suls query, the official added an explanation.
Do you see the iron netting embedded in the glass?
Upon the officials question, Pan-sul examined the identification tag again. Indeed, there was a finely woven iron net inside the glass. The official continued the explanation.
That iron netting makes the glass stronger.
I see
And remember, this identification tag is a proof of your identity. Dont be careless with it. If some miscreant steals it and uses it for ill, you could face serious trouble.
Yes! I will keep that in mind!
Leaving the town hall, Pan-sul looked at the identification tag in his hand with a complex expression.
Its really peculiar. What is this really It makes me feel as if Ive become someone important.
The identification tag, with its expensive glass, seemed to imbue Pan-sul with a sense of unexplained pride.
Pan-sul scrutinized the identification tag, murmuring to himself.
Whose idea was this? Truly a marvelous invention
* * *
Indeed, the design of the identification tag was Hyangs work.
Simply carving wood takes too long, and securing materials is a problem
If the identification tag were to be made of wood like the previous ones, there would be many issues with preservation.
What would be better?
While pondering for a solution, Hyang snapped his fingers as a soldier passed by and saluted.
Thats it!
What Hyang remembered was the dog tags worn during military service in the 21st century.
Based on the design of the dog tags, Hyang made some modifications.
Instead of rubber, he wrapped the edges with metal, inserted glass to add a touch of sophistication, and finally, secured it with screws, covering it with lead and stamping an official seal to prevent forgery. Hyang presented this prototype to King Sejong.
Excellent! Lets proceed with this design!
King Sejong immediately approved the prototype upon seeing it.
* * *
The distribution of the identification tag began with King Sejong and was carried out methodically. After completing the distribution in Hanyang, the smooth progress of the identification tag distribution starting from the Samnam region was reported daily, and Sejong praised Hyang.
Your contribution is truly significant!
It was merely good fortune on my part!
Receiving King Sejongs praise and returning to the Eastern Palace, Hyang stopped by the research institute. Looking at the various devices on display, he mumbled to himself.
We have created so much. The problem is
Observing the empty spaces in the display case, Hyang continued.
Theres still so much more to make. I wonder if, a few hundred years from now, historians studying Fathers and my reign will criticize us?
Imagining the distant future, Hyang let out a wry chuckle.
Who knows?
A legal system established to enforce the carrying of (identification tags). It was implemented during the reign of King Taejong, the third king of the Joseon Dynasty, and was temporarily abolished before being reinstated in 1458, the 4th year of King Sejo, the seventh king of Joseon. It remained in effect almost until the end of the Joseon Dynasty. Under this system, those of the second rank () and above in the Dongban (Eastern Class) and Seoban (Western Class) carried a specific type of tag (), those of the third rank () and below and those who passed miscellaneous examinations carried another type (), scholars such as (students) and (licentiates) carried , and lower-ranking officials, commoners, minor clerks, and local officials carried a (small rectangular wooden tag). Public and private menials and temporary officials carried a (large rectangular wooden tag).[]
Chapter 176Episode 176: The Climax of the Reform Part 1In the Giyu year, towards the end of the year,King Sejong gathered his ministers in Geunjeongjeon and commanded:Prepare to initiate the Household Registration Law1 as planned in the reform.https://mblogthumb-phinf.pstatic.net/MjAyMjExMThfMTI1/MDAxNjY4NzQ3ODI3MjE4.vWoUxXPvVLEAXwd9qE12zTfZhDioBTB2S5-1wzeUx4gg._wkF-Gqr0TqKDekUnW7S24_hveprdxtcG9kHg9OHsDQg.JPEG.unesco114/20061116151949762000.jpg?type=w420 Identification tagWe shall follow Your Majestys command!The ministers replied in unison to King Sejongs order.The Household Registration Law was not a novel concept introduced by Sejong; it was first attempted during King Taejongs reign but led to various side effects and eventually became obsolete.The failure of the Household Registration Law under King Taejong was primarily because the identification tag, intended merely as an identification document, turned into shackles that restrained the people. In an economy centered on agriculture, the citizens had no freedom to relocate, and the identification tag served as a mechanism to prevent them from arbitrarily leaving their hometowns.While the identification tag made it easier for Joseon to collect taxes and impose corve labor, it simultaneously intensified the suffering of merchants and lower-class commoners.As a result, many started forging identification tag to claim the status of Cheonmin, a class exempt from certain duties especially military service, leading to the obsolescence of the Household Registration Law attempted during King Taejongs time.However, Sejong was determined to give the Household Registration Law another try.This time it will be different! This time!Sejong was fueled with determination, reflecting on the failures of King Taejongs era.* * *With King Sejongs order, carts loaded with tools and materials for making identification tag, along with artisans, began to move across the nation.I would like to deploy artisans and equipment in every corner of the country, but the situation does not permit it, Sejong remarked.The ministers bowed their heads in agreement.That is true, Your Majesty.So, where should we start?At Sejongs question, the ministers began to discuss, suggesting the optimal regions for the initial implementation of the Household Registration Law.Unlike previous debates, this discussion was conducted calmly and ended with a decision to start the production and distribution of identification tags on a trial basis in Hanyang present-day Seoul, followed by implementation starting from the Samnam region the southern provinces.Why is that?At King Sejongs inquiry, Chief State Councilor Lee Jik explained the reason.Due to the rebellion incident that occurred last autumn, a considerable amount of state-owned farmland has emerged in the Samnam region. To utilize these lands without missing the farming season next year, we need to find tenants. If the issuance of identification tags and the organization of household registers are delayed, we risk missing the planting season.Sejong nodded at Lee Jiks explanation.Your opinions are sensible. Then, lets begin the distribution of identification tags starting from the Samnam region.We will follow Your Majestys command!Thus, the distribution of identification tags started in the Samnam region.On the day the artisans and officials set out, King Sejong summoned those in charge to Gyeongbokgung Palace.Due to the lack of space, tents were set up in front of Geunjeongjeon, and several large braziers were placed to warm the area, where a feast was prepared.The artisans and officials, seated in front of the lavish banquet, looked at the table with stern faces.Wasnt there a saying, The day you receive Ministry of Taxation provisions?'It seems this task will indeed not be easy.Long live His Majesty!The officials and artisans, who were grumbling in front of the banquet, quickly rose from their seats at the sound of the royal approach.We greet His Majesty!Receiving the bows of the artisans and officials, King Sejong sat down and gave a command.Everyone, please take your seats comfortably.As the officials and artisans sat down, Sejong began his address.The task you all are about to undertake is of great importance. It is crucial for you to adhere to the schedule, as starting from the road construction, all policies of the reform rely on timely execution. I sincerely wish for you all to do your best.At Sejongs exhortation, the officials and artisans responded loudly.We shall devote ourselves wholeheartedly!Then, since tomorrow will be the start of busy days, enjoy this evening. Let the music begin!As the musicians started playing, the officials and artisans began to enjoy the food and drink.The next day, the production of identification tags commenced in all areas of Hanyang.Once the frames were properly combined, the artisan handed over the assembly to the next artisan.The final artisan, upon verifying the assembly, poured melted lead into the largest hole among the corner screw holes and waited for it to cool before stamping the official seal.After sealing, the artisan handed the completed identification tag to a waiting official.The official receiving the identification tag called out the name written on it.Born in the year of Gap-Sul, Han Pan-sul! Where is Han Pan-sul?Here! I am here!Pan-sul, who had been waiting, stepped forward, and the official marked the registry before handing over the identification tag.Take good care of this. If you lose or damage it and need a reissue, youll have to pay 300 won.Goodness! Thats expensive!Thats why you need to take good care of it.At the officials words, Pan-sul pointed to the glass in the center of the identification tag.This has glass embedded in the middle?To Pan-suls query, the official added an explanation.Do you see the iron netting embedded in the glass?Upon the officials question, Pan-sul examined the identification tag again. Indeed, there was a finely woven iron net inside the glass. The official continued the explanation.That iron netting makes the glass stronger.I seeAnd remember, this identification tag is a proof of your identity. Dont be careless with it. If some miscreant steals it and uses it for ill, you could face serious trouble.Yes! I will keep that in mind!Leaving the town hall, Pan-sul looked at the identification tag in his hand with a complex expression.Its really peculiar. What is this really It makes me feel as if Ive become someone important.The identification tag, with its expensive glass, seemed to imbue Pan-sul with a sense of unexplained pride.Pan-sul scrutinized the identification tag, murmuring to himself.Whose idea was this? Truly a marvelous invention* * *Indeed, the design of the identification tag was Hyangs work.Simply carving wood takes too long, and securing materials is a problemIf the identification tag were to be made of wood like the previous ones, there would be many issues with preservation.What would be better?While pondering for a solution, Hyang snapped his fingers as a soldier passed by and saluted.Thats it!What Hyang remembered was the dog tags worn during military service in the 21st century.Based on the design of the dog tags, Hyang made some modifications.Instead of rubber, he wrapped the edges with metal, inserted glass to add a touch of sophistication, and finally, secured it with screws, covering it with lead and stamping an official seal to prevent forgery. Hyang presented this prototype to King Sejong.Excellent! Lets proceed with this design!King Sejong immediately approved the prototype upon seeing it.* * *The distribution of the identification tag began with King Sejong and was carried out methodically. After completing the distribution in Hanyang, the smooth progress of the identification tag distribution starting from the Samnam region was reported daily, and Sejong praised Hyang.Your contribution is truly significant!It was merely good fortune on my part!Receiving King Sejongs praise and returning to the Eastern Palace, Hyang stopped by the research institute. Looking at the various devices on display, he mumbled to himself.We have created so much. The problem isObserving the empty spaces in the display case, Hyang continued.Theres still so much more to make. I wonder if, a few hundred years from now, historians studying Fathers and my reign will criticize us?Imagining the distant future, Hyang let out a wry chuckle.Who knows?A legal system established to enforce the carrying of identification tags. It was implemented during the reign of King Taejong, the third king of the Joseon Dynasty, and was temporarily abolished before being reinstated in 1458, the 4th year of King Sejo, the seventh king of Joseon. It remained in effect almost until the end of the Joseon Dynasty. Under this system, those of the second rank and above in the Dongban Eastern Class and Seoban Western Class carried a specific type of tag , those of the third rank and below and those who passed miscellaneous examinations carried another type , scholars such as students and licentiates carried , and lower-ranking officials, commoners, minor clerks, and local officials carried a small rectangular wooden tag. Public and private menials and temporary officials carried a large rectangular wooden tag.
