Stories of Korea’s National Treasures 70
Photo Credit : Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea
Certificate of Meritorious Subject for the Founding of the Joseon Dynasty Granted to Sim Ji-baek
(Joseon Dynasty)
🏯 1. A Document That Marked the Birth of a Kingdom
In 1392, the Joseon Dynasty was founded, ushering in a new era of Korean history that would last for more than five centuries.
To recognize those who contributed to the establishment of the new kingdom, the royal court issued official certificates known as Gaeguk Wonjong Gongsin Nokgwon — certificates of merit granted to founding supporters.
Among the surviving examples, the certificate awarded to Sim Ji-baek is one of the most valuable.
It preserves the names, ranks, and honors bestowed upon those who helped shape the birth of a nation.
More than a document, it is a witness to one of the most significant turning points in Korean history.
🪨 2. Form and Historical Value
The certificate was written on high-quality paper using elegant classical Chinese characters, the official written language of the period.
Its text records the royal decree recognizing Sim Ji-baek's contributions and outlines the privileges and honors granted to him and his descendants.
The calligraphy is precise and dignified, reflecting the authority of the newly established royal government.
Official seals and formatting further demonstrate the administrative sophistication of early Joseon bureaucracy.
Despite its age, the document remains remarkably well preserved, providing historians with invaluable information about the political structure and reward system of the era.
🌄 3. The Meaning of a Gongsin Nokgwon
A Gongsin Nokgwon was more than a reward.
It was a formal acknowledgment that an individual's loyalty and service had contributed to the foundation and stability of the state.
For the recipients, it brought honor not only to themselves but also to future generations of their families.
The certificate granted to Sim Ji-baek reflects the values that shaped early Joseon society:
loyalty, responsibility, and dedication to public service.
It also reminds us that the creation of a nation is never the work of one person alone, but of many individuals working toward a shared vision.
🌿 4. Preservation and Cultural Legacy
The Certificate of Meritorious Subject for the Founding of the Joseon Dynasty Granted to Sim Ji-baek is one of the oldest surviving official documents from the early Joseon period.
Designated National Treasure No. 70, it offers rare insight into the political history, administrative systems, and documentary culture of Korea's longest-ruling dynasty.
Today, it stands as a powerful reminder that history is preserved not only in palaces and monuments, but also in the written records that connect generations across time.
💬 5. A Warm Reflection
“Kingdoms rise through great events, but they are remembered through small pieces of paper.
This document reminds us that every chapter of history is ultimately written by people, their choices, and their dedication.”
📌 Notice
The National Treasure number indicates the order of designation, not a ranking of value.
For more information, please visit the 👉 National Heritage Portal.
More Stories of Korea’s National Treasures
Discover more national treasures of Korea here:
https://www.kor-telling.com/category/한국의-국보-이야기