『扶桑紀行』의 특징과 鄭后僑의 일본 인식

Abstract

This study examines the characteristics of Record of a Journey to Japan (扶桑紀行, Pusang kihaeng) written during the 1719 embassy and the perception of Japan by its author, Chŏng Hukyo. Chŏng was recognized as a prominent poet among Noron literati such as Kim Chang-hŭp and Sin Chŏng-ha during the reign of King Sukjong. As a soldier of the 1719 mission to vice envoy Hwang Sŏn, he was responsible for exchanging poetry with the Japanese along with the embassy’s clerks and secretaries. Joining the mission to Japan was a form of leisure for him, and this is apparent from how his emissary record focuses on detailed such sightseeing experiences rather than on information. The record mainly focuses on sensory descriptions of scenery and unique sights as well as recreating the exchange of diaries and poetry in written conversations with Japanese literati. In particular, it is noteworthy for its vivid descriptions of diverse experiences such as whale hunting and sites of poetry exchange not found in other emissary records. Moreover, Chŏng’s perception of Japan can be analyzed from three aspects. The first of these is approval of Japan’s legal system and national strength. The second is a sensitive reappraisal of Japanese character and customs from a sympathetic viewpoint. The third is a new understanding of Japan’s civilization through an adaptation of the discourse of Sino-barbarian dichotomy (華夷論, hwa-yi-ron). The last is particularly interesting in its adaptation, or roundabout modifying, of the premises of an existing concept among Chosŏn intellectuals to produce a new understanding. The above investigation of Record of a Journey to Japan demonstrates several important points for analysis in research on emissary records. A comparison with records from the same or different time periods will broaden the scope of the study.