Korean Confucianism

Because of its geographical position, Korea was always under the influence of China, the big neighbor to the west. The most important export of Chinese culture to Korea is Confucianism. Today Confucian ways of thinking are so firmly and deeply rooted in Korean daily life that even the Chinese say, the Koreans are the most stringent Confucianists. This applies to the moral system, the way of life and laws.

The Goguryeo was heavily influenced by Chinese culture and Confucianism. Originally, the UK retained their own traditions, but slowly lost the most. The Baekje Kingdom, however, has subsequently adopted Confucianism directly. This influenced the administration, the culture and especially the arts. Silla was the last of the three kingdoms, which adopted Confucianism.

Under King Seongjong Confucianism in Korea took final foot. After the universities had introduced a Confucian curriculum, where disclosure took place throughout the empire. The king had built an altar in the palace for the worship of the ancestors since part of the permanent court ceremonial.

During the Joseon Dynasty, Confucianism was the philosophy of the state. The rulers put the ideas into practice. Many schools were built, all with a Confucian curriculum. Up to the time of King Sejong ( r. 1418-1450 ) all subjects at the universities were deeply influenced by Confucianism.

The main occasions for ceremonies in Korean Confucianism: coming of age, marriage, death, and the anniversary of the death of ancestors. Funerals had the greatest impact on the common people. Although Confucianism is no longer the official philosophy today and practiced by only a minority according to ancient tradition, the influences are not to be overlooked in modern life. The behavior of the children to the parents and the strong enthusiasm for learning in schools and universities fall the most eye.