Abstract

This paper narrates the origin of the “Transmission of the Way” (dotong) in Korea and the emergence of scholarly lineages. It connects this with the particular socio-political constellation of Joseon society according to which social standing determined participation in the political world. For this reason, Korean dohak was always more political than in China. Following the death of Toegye Yi Hwang and Yulgok Yi I, the Way bifurcated, and its application to the intellectual discourse and political reality depended much on those in power. This was equally true for the selection of scholarly candidates for the honor of enshrinement in the Shrine of Confucius (Munmyo). What emerged as “orthodoxy” aroused dissent that was suppressed by the state. Toward the end of the dynasty, the scholarly atmosphere became more fluid, and personal interpretations of the Classics began to emerge.