조선 전기 訴冤제도의 변화

Abstract

This study looked at the changes in the Petition system[訴冤 制度] in the early Joseon Dynasty from the perspective of the document administration of Shinmungo[申聞鼓]. The purpose of installing Shinmungo was to communicate with the people. If the information received through Shinmungo was judged to be reasonable, the government reflected the opinion. As the system was reorganized and society stabilized, Shinmungo focused on resolving individual grievances. This was because unexpected conflicts arose as society became more complex. Shinmungo operated for the 15th century under the motto of ‘resolving individual grievances’. Excluding the early days of the installation, Shinmungo was virtually administrative. So, getting the paperwork right was important. Beating the drum was a symbolic act to announce that personal grievances had been taken over by the king. Complaints received were documented and reported to the king. Complaints that came up through this process were referred to as ‘Shangheon[上言]’ or ‘Shinmungo Sangeon[申聞鼓 上言]’. During the reign of King Seongjong, regulations related to Sinmungo were simplified. This led to an increase in the use of the Petition system by the people. The stagnation of the Petition system and the cumbersomeness of the process caused an increase in the striking gong system to complain any grievances. Striking gong system to complain any grievances was able to communicate directly with the king by bypassing and transcending the system. While listening to the complaints of the people, the government guided them to follow the established wish system, such as Shinmungo.