The historiography of Korea refers to the study and methods of compiling the history of Korea. This field has evolved over time, reflecting different periods and cultural contexts. During the Joseon period, historical narratives were influenced by the royal court, emphasizing a state-centric view. However, during the Korean independence movement and the Japanese colonial period, Korean historiography shifted towards a more realistic analysis and critical thinking. Modern Korean historiography seeks to provide a multi-dimensional understanding through independent perspectives, diverse theories, and methodologies, highlighting the distinctive characteristics and significance of Korean history.
Goryeo dynasty The historical and literary activities of the Goryeo Dynasty were diverse and active, primarily focused on the use of Chinese characters. These activities gradually shifted from a China-centric perspective to a more Korea-centric approach, conscious of the nation's independence. In history, Kim Bu-sik's Samguk sagi and Ilyeon's Samguk yusa are representative works, reflecting the changing times and growing national consciousness. During this period, most activities were still predominantly based on Chinese characters.
Historical outlook First of all, it is noteworthy that the activities in the fields of history and literature during this era were much more diverse and active than in the previous era. These activities were made possible through a deeper understanding of Chinese characters. During this time, neither Idu (吏讀), which was found in Silla's Hyangga literature, nor Hangeul, introduced after the Joseon Dynasty, was commonly used as a means of expression. Almost all activities were dominated by the use of Chinese characters, which were the primary medium of the era. The overall characteristic of historical and literary thought in this period lies in the gradual shift from a Chinese-centered perspective to a Korean-centered one, as people became increasingly aware of national independence. This change inevitably occurred due to the development of Korean society and shifts in domestic circumstances.
In terms of historical writings, Goryeo began compiling the Sillok (實錄) from the early stages of the dynasty. In addition to this project, other historical books (史書) were frequently compiled and published. Among them, Kim Bu-sik's Samguk sagi (三國史記) (comprising 50 volumes), compiled in the 23rd year of King Injong (1145), is the longest of the Korean history books still in existence. However, Samguk sagi has been criticized for largely reflecting Kim Bu-sik's Sadaejuui (事大主義), a pro-Chinese ideology. Through many passages in the Samguk sagi, Korea's historical narrative remains China-centered, leading to criticism that it lacks sufficient national independence. However, rather than placing the blame entirely on Kim Bu-sik, it is important to understand the spirit of the times. Ideologically, the deep influence of Chinese culture and its way of thinking was prevalent throughout Korean society until then. The historical thought (史學思想) seen in Samguk sagi is a product of these circumstances.
As the times changed, so too did historical thought. A significant example of this can be seen in Ilyeon (一然)'s Samguk yusa (三國遺事), compiled during the reign of King Chungnyeol (1274–1308). By this time, the conditions had changed drastically. The Song (宋) Dynasty, founded by the Han (漢) people, had collapsed, and the Mongols, a northern people, had emerged as the dominant power, exerting considerable influence on the political and ideological landscape of the Goryeo Dynasty. At this point, a Korean-centered historical narrative began to emerge. The national consciousness to protect the Korean people in the face of Mongol military and political oppression was reflected in historical descriptions. For example, the Dangun myth () (檀君神話), which appears at the beginning of Samguk yusa, represents efforts to reclaim national independence.
This ideological trend can be generally observed in the history and literature of the late Goryeo Dynasty. For instance, the changing spirit of the times is reflected in 's (李承休) Jewang ungi (帝王韻紀) and Yi Kyubo's (李奎報) Dongmyeong Wangpyeon (東明王篇). Many other historical books, such as (編年通錄), (古今錄), and Bonjo Pyeonnyeon Gangmok (本朝編年綱目), were also published during this period. However, it is unfortunate that these works are no longer extant, making it difficult to examine their specific historical thought.
Joseon dynasty The historical ideas of the early Joseon Dynasty are particularly evident in the approach to compiling history. In the national history books of this period, Chinese-centered thinking, inherited from the Goryeo Dynasty, was predominant. However, due to the growing recognition that "the people of Joseon are well-versed in Chinese history but lack knowledge of Korean history," there was a shift toward emphasizing national history. This led to the compilation of numerous national history books and an increase in history education during this time.
In contrast, during the late Joseon Dynasty, the focus on Korean historical consciousness became much more pronounced. However, this consciousness was still heavily influenced by Confucian ideas. The desire to break away from Confucian ideals led to the compilation of numerous historical works that aimed to represent Korea's autonomous and independent historical identity. This process resulted in a more systematic understanding of Korean history, and the historical ideas of the late Joseon Dynasty came to play a significant role in shaping Korean historical thought.
Historical outlook of the early period The historical ideas of the early Joseon Dynasty are notably reflected in the approach to history editing. During this period, the focus of national history books remained largely Chinese-centered, following the precedent set by the Goryeo Dynasty. However, as awareness grew that "the people of Joseon are well-versed in Chinese history but lack knowledge of Korean history," there was a push towards emphasizing national history. This led to the compilation of many national historical texts and an increased focus on history education.
In contrast, by the late Joseon Dynasty, there was a much stronger emphasis on Korean historical consciousness. Despite this, most of this consciousness was still rooted in Confucian ideas. Efforts were made to move away from Confucian idealism, leading to the compilation of numerous historical works aimed at representing Korea's independent historical identity. This period saw a reorganization of Korean history and its system, resulting in a significant development of historical thought.
The influence of Chinese historical texts on the compilation of Korean national history was substantial. This is evident in the preface of Dongguk Tonggam, which reflects a strong interest in Chinese historiography. After the founding of the Joseon Dynasty, the compilation of historical records such as the Annals of the Dynasty and various historical texts, including Gwanchan and Sachan works like Goryeosa and , became prominent. King Sejo's efforts to highlight Korean history and correct historical narratives are well-documented, including Seo Geo-Jeong's references to Chinese texts like Jachi Tonggam and Tonggam Gangmok by Zhu Xi (朱憙). Seo Geo-Jeong's critiques emphasized that despite the long history of Joseon, there was a lack of a comprehensive history book, which motivated the creation of works like the Dongguk Tonggam to enlighten people about Korean history.
During the early Joseon Dynasty, the historical editing consciousness was strong, with an emphasis on moral instruction and the promotion of national ethos. This is reflected in the efforts to compile various historical texts and to enhance history education. For instance, Yang Seong-Ji's selection of important historical texts during King Sejo's reign underscored the commitment to both Korean and Chinese history. The focus on Korean history became even more pronounced after events like the Imjin War and the Qing invasion of Joseon, driven by the need to assert Korean identity in the face of external pressures.
Historical outlook of the late period A series of advanced scholars in the late Joseon Dynasty grappled with various contradictions in political and social systems. While there were notable thinkers in earlier periods, their motivations were not as pronounced as those in the late Joseon era. Some of these scholars sought solutions while in government, while others pursued their ideas in rural settings. Nonetheless, any proposed ideas were constrained by Confucian ideology (儒敎理念), which remained the standard for resolving contradictions. From the 18th century onwards, as Western studies and new perceptions of Qing dynasty culture emerged, ideas began to deviate from Confucianism. However, most remained influenced by Confucian thought. Consequently, the pursuit of a new ideal state and society often began with a critique of reality based on Confucian ideals. This critique frequently sought rationality from a historical perspective.
Pre-modern history was autonomous, and its significance was apparent. This autonomy also characterized the historical consciousness of the late Joseon Dynasty. Reality often proved unsatisfactory, particularly for those aiming to achieve Gwangjeong (匡正) by confronting contradictions. Historical research, always critical of contemporary scientific methodology, begins with a critique of inherent facts. This critical approach was also evident in the late Joseon Dynasty. Scholars of this period were independent thinkers who attempted to resolve issues from an independent perspective, diverging from traditional attitudes. This approach led to a renewed perception of Joseon's history and geography.
In Korea, historical consciousness emerged prominently during the period of national awakening. Whether or not the concept of a nation was established, it arose during a time of strong self-recognition. This phenomenon can be observed in various historical periods, such as the mid-Goryeo period during northern invasions, the early Joseon period with the establishment of new systems, and the mid-Joseon period facing invasions from the north and south. Intellectuals before and after the 18th century, who struggled with realistic contradictions before and after the Enlightenment, also exhibited this consciousness. Historical consciousness thus characterizes the times, and historical books reflecting this consciousness emerged during the late Joseon Dynasty.
Notable historians who compiled significant historical works include Ahn Jung-bok (安鼎福), author of Dongsa Gangmok (東史綱目); Lee Geung-ik (李肯翊), author of (燃藜室記述); and Han Chi-yoon (韓致奫), author of (海東繹史). Influential scholars who impacted their work included Lee Ik (李瀷), Lim Sang-Deok (林象德), Yoon Seong-sang (尹衡聖), Lee Deok-mu (李德懋), Cho Gyeong-nam (趙慶男), Yoo Deuk-gong (柳得恭), Hong Yang-ho (洪良浩), Hong Seok-ju (洪奭周), and Jeong Yak-yong (丁若鏞). Most of the so-called Positive School (實學派) of the late Joseon Dynasty were historical thinkers. They studied history not merely from autonomous perspectives but engaged actively with and critiqued reality. This active historicism aimed for an objective examination of history. For instance, Han Chi-yoon's Haedong Yeoksa, which aimed to project Korean history using Chinese or Japanese sources, was comparable to Ahn Jung-bok's Dongsa Gangmok, which established an independent Korean history system, and Lee Geung-ik's Yeongnyeosil Gisul. The value of history as a science was a common goal.