A Study on Countermeasures Against Western Invasions After the Byeongin Yangyo : Focusing on 『Yungseo Chwaryo(戎書撮要)』

This paper analyzes the strategies outlined in 『Yungseo Chwaryo(戎書撮要)』, a military treatise compiled in response to potential Western invasions after the Byeongin Yangyo(丙寅洋擾). The Byeongin Yangyo(丙寅洋擾) was the third foreign invasion Korea had faced, marking the first time the country encountered Western military power. Following this experience, the Korean court sought to enhance the defenses around Seoul and strengthen the military system. As part of these efforts, 『Yongseo Chwaryo』was compiled under the support of Shin Heon(申櫶). This text is distinct in that it frequently cites Qing(淸) dynasty military manuals instead of relying solely on the 『Jixiao Xinshu(紀效新書)』 and incorporates updated battle tactics. The response model formulated in this treatise focuses on selecting and training local militia, adopting a mountain fortress defense strategy, and engaging in small-scale guerrilla warfare against Western ships. The local militia was selected for courage and bravery, with an emphasis on realistic martial training and camp formation to build resilience. Stationing in mountain fortresses allowed for strategic defense by leveraging difficult terrain and fostering internal unity through a strong sense of community within the fortress. Refugees were required to provide a certain amount of food, ensuring sustenance during confrontations, and were encouraged to remain steadfast in their positions rather than flee. Regarding Western naval confrontations, the treatise covers weaponry from the 『Mubei Ji(武備志)』and tactics by Lin Zexu(林則徐) from the 『Haiguo Tuzhi(海國圖志)』. It suggests attacking the bow and stern of Western ships, where their guns were not positioned, and introduces guerrilla tactics on land involving war carts, multi-shot firearms, and poison bombs. Notably, the text’s attempt to locally produce percussion caps was quite progressive for the era, reflecting an advanced understanding of contemporary military needs.