▲ ‘Seoyugyeonmun Drafted Manuscript’
The manuscript reflecting the concerns and passion of Yu Gil-jun, the first Korean student to study in the United States, becomes a national heritage.
The National Heritage Administration announced that the ‘Seoyugyeonmun (西遊見聞) Drafted Manuscript’ will be registered as a National Registered Cultural Heritage.
Yu Gil-jun, a late Joseon Dynasty politician and enlightenment thinker, visited the United States in 1883 as part of the first Western diplomatic mission, the Bobingsa, and later studied in Salem, Massachusetts.
‘Seoyugyeonmun’ is a book that compiles his experiences while studying in the United States.
This book, which introduces geography, history, administration, and customs of various Western countries across 20 sections, is praised for systematically and comprehensively documenting Western culture.
The draft, consisting of a total of 9 volumes, contains traces of black and red ink throughout.
It is considered an important document that allows confirmation of the original state before correction and printing, as it includes not only simple textual corrections but also revisions of sentences and modifications to the content.
The National Heritage Administration explained, “‘Seoyugyeonmun’ is a resource that provides insight into the global context from the perspective of a 19th-century Korean,” and added, “It holds great value for historical or bibliographic research.”
(Photo provided by National Heritage Administration, Yonhap News)