Abstract

The similarity of Dasan Jeong Yagyong and King Jeongjo derives from the belief that the ruler should carry out politics for the people. According to Dasan, the ruler is chosen by the people or appointed by the Mandate of the Lord on High. The former reveals Dasan’s ideal view of politics, while the latter conveys his realistic perspective. He claims that the Mandate represents the will of the people; thus, the ruler was chosen by them. The ruler being appointed by the Mandate is similar to Jeongjo’s thought. However, Dasan believes that the ruler learns the rules of the Mandate by observing the people, as opposed to Dasan’s belief that the ruler should be assisted by a minister in possession of that knowledge. Although Jeongjo makes no mention of the people’s selection of their ruler, he regarded himself as father of the people, believing the ruler should care for the people as his own children. Consequently, Jeongjo tried to strengthen his royal power. Dasan also viewed the ruler as father of the people; thus, the ruler’s duty was to ensure the people lived properly. To achieve this, the ruler had to reform the system of governance and therefore required strong royal authority.