서울지명의 변천과 특징

Abstract

The geographical names of the capital city of Korea are the historical heritage since the trace of people who have gotten accustomed to nature, geography, customs and systems of the city remains in the names. Seoul was the capital city of both the Baekje and Joseon Dynasties. The geographical names of the city, which were related to historical relics, famous people and particular incidents, have survived so far. In the Joseon Dynasty, for example, the political philosophy of the Dynasty spread to people by reflecting Confucian virtues (ex: humanity, righteousness, courtesy, wisdom, and trust) in the geographical names of the capital city, which became the basis for the current names. However, the traditional geographical names of the capital city went through a great change during the Japanese colonial period. All geographical names of Seoul changed to Japanese words. Some regions were even named after Japanese invaders. A lot of geographical names and meanings were distorted during this period. Since national liberation, people have worked hard to reinstate the traditional geographical names. They have tried to elevate historical consciousness by naming regions and streets with national heroes’ names. Since the late 1960s, many regions have been newly named in accordance with the great social changes such as the sharp increase in population and rapid economic growth. In addition, the Street Naming Committee and National Board of Geographic Names were founded. Due to a high population concentration and rapid urbanization and industrialization, the geographical names of Seoul have greatly changed. Due to the expansion of housing and industrial facilities, many forests, fields and streams have lost their original names or acquired brand-new names. As Seoul has developed into a metropolitan city, its geographical names have become complicated. As a cultural and global city, the names have become more refined and stylish. The complicated geographical names are becoming simplified or beautified over time. Since the rapid population increase and division of administrative districts have caused chaos in geographical names, however, revisions are being requested by the public.