Baekje-Southern and Northern Dynasties Relations and the Portrayal of the ‘Faithful Vassal State’in Biǎowén(表文)

In this article, the biǎowén(表文) sent by Baekje to the Southern and Northern Dynasties(Nánběicháo, 南北朝) of China are examined, with particular attention paid to the image of the Eastern “Faithful Vassal State” presented in those documents, interpreting it as part of Baekje's diplomatic strategy. Biǎowén refers to a document submitted by a vassal to their ruler. The biǎowén of Baekje followed a “Chinese-style” format and employed various expressions and rhetoric reflecting the monarch-vassal relationship. Through these biǎowén, Baekje portrayed itself as a “Faithful Vassal State,” as part of a diplomatic strategy aimed at achieving its intended objectives. The image of the Eastern “Faithful Vassal State” was formed following the Chinese dynasty's appointment of the Baekje king, initially mentioned in documents like the zhàoshū(詔書) of the Southern and Northern Dynasties, and this was reflected in Baekje's biǎowén. Baekje's competitive spirit toward Goguryeo is believed to have been a driving force behind the continued and strengthened portrayal of itself as the Eastern “Faithful Vassal State”.