金壽億의 行蹟을 통해 본 조선시대 內侍의 役割과 社會的 地位 재조명

Abstract

In this paper, I examined the basic duties of eunuchs, such as supervising royal meals(監膳), delivering messages(傳命), guarding gates(守門), and cleaning(掃除), as well as their roles during ceremonies, events, and incidents. Additionally, I examined the national ceremonies, events, and incidents during King Yeongjo's reign, focusing on the tasks performed by the eunuch Kim Su-eok. In this context, I also considered the ranks and titles he received from the king. Kim Su-eok served as a eunuch from King Sukjong's reign to King Yeongjo's reign. He was recorded somewhat negatively during King Sukjong's era. However, from the first year of King Yeongjo's reign until Kim Su-eok's last recorded activity on January 13, 1744 (Yeongjo 20), he was involved in significant events of King Yeongjo's reign. Kim Su-eok performed various roles such as overseeing the preparations for King Gyeongjong's funeral, serving as a eunuch in charge of ceremonial palanquins, and guarding the royal coffin. During coronation ceremonies, he served as a eunuch in charge of the royal seal, and for rituals like rain prayers and alliance rituals, he served as a sacrificial eunuch. He was also involved in the banquet ceremonies for the Crown Prince's wedding, and during the interrogation of major criminals during the Yi In-jwa rebellion, he served as a eunuch in charge of precious items(寶差備). Furthermore, he assisted in royal plowing ceremonies, prepared Korean confectionery for the grand banquets of the Dowager Queen (Queen Inwon, Wife of King Sukjong), organized rituals honoring the Dowager Queen, and served as a transmitting eunuch(尙傳) during the conferment of honorific titles to the king or queen. He performed various and detailed tasks within the inner court, surpassing the highest rank of jong 2nd rank (Sangseon) recorded in the Naesibu of the Gyeongguk Daejeon, and reached the rank of Jong 1st rank, "Sungnok Daebu", a civil official in the 11th year of King Yeongjo's reign (1735). This demonstrates the king's trust and his exceptional work capabilities. Through the activities of Kim Su-eok, this paper reevaluates the role and social status of eunuchs in the Joseon Dynasty, showing that eunuchs were not merely staffs but important public officials.