16세기 말 황해도의 饑饉과 賑濟場 운영―황해도관찰사 배삼익의 일기와 관련 기록물을 중심으로―

Abstract

This study analyzes Hwanghae Province Diary (Hwanghaedo Ilgi) written by Bae Sam-ik(裵三益, 1534~1588), the Governor of Hwanghae Province during the mid-Joseon period, along with its associated records, to investigate the famine conditions and relief operations of late 16th-century Hwanghae Province. Bae Sam-ik was appointed as the Governor of Hwanghae Province in October 1587 (20th year of King Seonjo’s reign), and his diary, Hwanghaedo Ilgi, was written during this tenure. Notably, this diary is accompanied by a wealth of related documents, offering unique insights into the period. The diary primarily focuses on administrative duties and contains detailed accounts of famine relief measures. Following King Seonjo’s directives, Bae Sam-ik conducted systematic inspections (sunhaeng) and operated relief stations (Jinjejang) to address the famine crisis effectively. This paper synthesizes Hwanghaedo Ilgi with 10 related documents, including royal decrees, official letters, and records of food distribution at relief stations (Jinjejang Jusiksu), to present a multidimensional analysis of the policies and administrative efforts implemented to mitigate the famine. Additionally, a comparative analysis with Bae Sam-ik Diary (Bae Sam-ik Ilgi), a more personal record presumed to reflect the author’s subjective perspectives and emotions, provides deeper insight into Ryu’s writing tendencies and the complexities of the historical context. This study highlights the significance of historical records in exploring responses to social crises in the late 16th-century Joseon and underscores the enduring value and implications of archival culture.