Learning Joseon's Wisdom Through the Spirit of Seeking Truth from Facts
Encountering Dasan Jeong Yak-yong
Geochang County in South Gyeongsang Province announced on October 15, 2025, that it had conducted the 3rd Geochang Humanities Exploration in the Yangpyeong area of Gyeonggi Province.
This humanities exploration was organized under the theme "Jeong Yak-yong, Who Sublimated His Frustrated Dreams into Scholarship, and the Spirit of Silhak." Participants visited the birthplace of Dasan Jeong Yak-yong and Dumulmeori, tracing the footsteps of Dasan, who was at the center of the Silhak (Practical Learning) movement in the late Joseon Dynasty.
The participants visited the birthplace of Dasan Jeong Yak-yong, where he was born and first aspired to scholarship. There, they experienced firsthand Dasan's lifelong academic philosophy and his commitment to the principle of "seeking truth from facts" for the benefit of the people.
They also examined Dasan’s works such as “Mokminsimseo,” “Gyeongse Yupyo,” and “Heumheum Sinseo,” which were on display at the memorial hall. Through this, they gained a deeper understanding of Dasan’s philosophy that “the foundation of scholarship is to bring comfort to the people.” In the following learning session, participants held discussions on the theme “Lessons Silhak Offers to Modern Administration and Society,” reflecting on how the ideas of the late Joseon period can be connected to the development of today’s local communities.
Afterwards, the group moved to Dumulmeori, where the Namhan River and Bukhan River converge, and spent time in contemplation in a space where nature and humanity coexist in harmony. Remembering the academic achievements Dasan accomplished during his 18 years in exile, participants reflected on the humanities message that “only when knowledge and practice come together can society truly change,” just as the streams merge and flow as one.
Mr. Kim (age 56, Geochang-eup), a participant in this humanities exploration, shared his thoughts: “At Dasan’s birthplace, I could directly feel his intense academic spirit and his philosophy of seeking truth from facts. It was a meaningful opportunity to reconsider the balance of humanity, nature, and life amid the peaceful scenery of Dumulmeori.”
An official from Geochang County stated, “The Geochang Humanities Exploration is not just a trip, but a lifelong learning program that provides field-based education. It is a meaningful opportunity to learn practical knowledge and public-mindedness through the life of Dasan Jeong Yak-yong, one of Joseon’s greatest thinkers. We will continue to expand opportunities for all residents to easily access and learn about the humanities.”
Meanwhile, Geochang County plans to hold the 4th Geochang Humanities Exploration in Suwon on November 11, focusing on “The Leadership of the Reformist Monarch King Jeongjo,” with visits to Hwaseong Fortress and Yunggeolleung. Applications can be submitted on a first-come, first-served basis through the Geochang County Lifelong Education Center website starting at 9 a.m. on October 20.
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