고려전기 迎賓관부의 설치와 운영 - 禮賓省을 중심으로 -

Abstract

This study examines installation and management of Yebin-Seong, which was one of the hospitality institutions in the early period of Goryeo Dynasty, identifies notable features of its management, and investigates it diplomatic role.BR From the beginning of Goryeo Dynasty, foreign delegations made frequent visits to the country, which increased the need to set up a hospitality institution to take charge of welcome, send-off and hospitality service for foreign delegates. In early years of the dynasty, the Taebong system was succeeded to play the role; then in 921 or the fourth year of reign by King Taejo, Yebin-Seong was installed. Subsequently, it was revised to Gaekseong in 995 or the 14th year of reign by King Seong Jong as a diplomatic relationship with the Khitans was reshaped following the first round of war with the Khitans, and hospitality institutions and diplomatic rituals were revised accordingly.BR In Baekgwanji or the chapter on public office in ‘Goryeosa’, Yebin-Seong is described as only serving the role of greeting guests and organizing banquets, but records on its management show that the institution broadly took part in foreign affairs-related activities as a working-level diplomatic institution as it took charge of welcome, send-off and hospitality service for foreign delegation, and also managed and supervised affairs related to foreigners including naturalized people from Song Dynasty, foreigners seeking asylum, Jurchen chiefs and Tamra royalty.BR In appointing officials at Yebin-Seong, expertise was emphasized and priority was given to people with experience of foreign affairs, given characteristics of its work.BR The operation of Yebin-Seong helped to manage issues related to foreigners including naturalized people from Song Dynasty, foreigners seeking asylum, Jurchen chiefs, and Tamra royalty in a continued manner and efficiently handle external affairs, in addition to taking charge of welcome, send-off and hospitality service for foreign delegation. This contributed to stabilizing a relationship with neighboring countries and other ethnic groups, and also, actively coping with fast-changing external circumstances.