『징비록』의 교훈과 명청교체기 조선의 대외정책 - 왜정자문(倭情咨文)을 중심으로

Abstract

This paper examines Korea's stance toward the Japanese issues during the Ming-Ching transition from the perspective of Ryu Seong-ryong's "Jingbirok." By reading the "Jingbirok," we can draw many valuable lessons from the Imjin War; however, Ryu Seong-ryong seems to have emphasized the importance of maintaining a good diplomatic relationship with Japan. Ryu thought that the Imjin War had to occur because the diplomatic relationship between the two countries deteriorated in the fifteenth to sixteenth centuries unlike the early period of the Joseon dynasty. For the purpose of gathering information about Japan’s conditions, it was necessary for Joseon to maintain a good diplomatic relationship with Japan. On the other hand, at the end of the Byongja War in early 1637, Qing demanded that Joseon report on the conditions of Japan. From the following year to 1646, Joseon submitted a total of eleven reports, known as “Reports on Japan” to Qing. The images of Japan given in these reports inevitably reflect the Joseon foreign policy of of the time. How are we to evaluate the Joseon foreign policy as shown in the “Reports on Japan“ from the perspective of "Jingbirok"? On the surface, it seems to correspond with the lessons of "Jingbirok." “Reports on Japan“ paints a positive picture of Japan and suggests that to maintain friendly relations with Japan is not only possible but also beneficial. However, the images of Japan changed negatively. Japan tried to take advantage of the situation in Joseon which was being pressurized by Qing to meet its demands. Direct connections between Qing and Japan was also considered unfavorable for Joseon. Moreover, Joseon resumed a tributary relationship with Qing. As a result, Japan was portrayed even more negatively in the “Reports on Japan.“ As a result, the lessons from "Jingbirok" were forgotten. The relationship between Joseon and Japan deteriorated resulting in the failure of the two to understand each other. Joseon permitted trade with Japan through Dongnae's Waegwan; however, Joseon’s relation with Japan was limited to sending congratulatory envoys to the Shogun’s appointment only once every decade. Japan also pursued a policy of isolation. As a result, Joseon would fall under Japanese colonial rule in two centuries.