대한제국기 유림의 ‘국가’ 인식

Abstract

This study aims to review changes in recognition of nation and monarch by the Yurim with internalized Neo-Confucian value system, as they encounter the concept of ‘modernity’, through their discussion on the concept of ‘nation.’ Modern western culture was introduced to Korea since mid-19th century, and shook the very foundation of Joseon. For the Yurim who lived in the Neo-Confucian value system, the other called the ‘West’ and its modern culture provided a momentum to reflect the true self of the Yurim, and the Yurim began to discuss the very concept of the monarch, its relationship with the people, and the existence of nation, that used to be regarded as ‘clear and natural’ in the Neo-Confucian value system. With the establishment of the Daehan Empire, one of the most turbulent times of the Korean History, such discussion became most dynamic. The Yurim of the late Joseon can be largely categorized as two groups, namely, the ‘Conservatives’ and the ‘Reformists.’ While the Conservatives adhered to the old Neo-Confucian value system, the Reformists viewed the introduction of modern Western culture as ‘timely duty’ to solve the imminent threats, although they didn't deny the old value system. In this context, the Reformists began to reflect the old concept of the nation and its people, especially the political system of a nation. They separated the monarch from the nation, differentiating the fidelity to the nation from the fidelity to the monarch. But the Reformists still kept the traditional view of ‘Fidelity for the Monarch, Love for the Country(忠君愛國)’, as they still embraced the old value system of Neo Confucism. Therefore it was natural for Reformists to choose constitutional monarchy, as they sought the common value of Neo-Confucianism and modern Western culture, to recognize the existence of traditional monarch, while introducing the modern Western Culture. However, their discussion on constitutional monarch couldn't advance any further due to limitations of the time. As the term ‘sinmin(臣民)’, or the subjects, reflect, the Reformists were largely influenced the old concepts and values. This is why there are insufficient discussion on existence of people and their political rights, despite the growing political awareness of people in 19th century.