- Title : What is Kim An-guk’s “northern discipline”? - Ask again, what is “practical learning” for now? -
- Author : Kim Ho (HK Professor)
- Journal : Journal of Korean History Hankuk Saron
- Publication Date : 2024.09.
- Abstract
Today, South Korea has achieved global success in science, technology, and popular culture, but it also faces serious social challenges, including a declining birthrate, aging population, regional decline, and wealth polarization. How can Korea maintain a “descent community” in the 21st century? The purpose of this article is to explore “practical learning in contemporary Korea” based on the academic theory of Kim An-guk, who prepared for the “age of neo-Confucianism” in the 16th century. Kim criticized exam-oriented study for career advancement and emphasized the practice needed for the new era. The new academic movement aimed to demonstrate public mindedness for the well-being of the community beyond oneself and family. To put it more simply, the preceding research on practical learning was shaped by the rejection of Neo-Confucianism as a ‘useless discipline’. Is the identity of Neo-Confucianism inherently ‘hypocritical’? What practices are necessary for the sustainability of Korea as a community today? Recalling Professor Han Young-woo’s lifelong question, “What is true learning?”, I wanted to ask “practical learning for now” to address the various social challenges facing contemporary Korea.
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