조선후기 서양식 수차와 실학자 李如樸

Abstract

This paper presents an investigation into Lee Yeo-bak’s viewpoint of waterwheels. Lee Yeo-bak was a Silhak scholar from Gangjin, JeollaProvince. Being influenced by hisfather, he took interestin Western study at anearly age and later conducted research on western-style waterwheels. Western-style waterwheels were recorded in Western books published by European missionaries at the end of the Ming Dynasty. They were then introduced to Joseon. Lee was devoted to research about Yongmicha, a type of Western-style waterwheel. Yongmicha was a water pump that drew water from the bottom to the top. This design was definitely needed in Joseon. The topography included many rice paddies located higher than rivers. Lee carried out research and development for Yongmicha based on his highly advanced math knowledge including geometry. He manufactured and operated these types of waterwheels in Yeongwang and Seoul. He insisted on the widespread use of these waterwheels.