Abandoned Corpses: Problems of Corpse Management and Ritual Responses in Joseon Korea

This study examines the management of dead bodies during disasters in Joseon Korea (1392-1910), uncovering complex interactions between the materiality and symbolism of corpses. Through an analysis of historical records, this research demonstrates that corpses were not merely objects to be disposed of but embodied dual characteristics as both decaying matter and symbolic mediators of social relations. The state’s intervention in corpse management, which began in earnest during the Japanese invasions (1592-1598) and intensified during subsequent famines and epidemics, often conflicted with local funeral practices and familial rights to mourning. While the state prioritized efficient disposal through mass burials to address practical challenges, families resisted such measures, perceiving them as disruptions to established ritual networks and their moral obligations to maintain continuity between the living and the dead. This tension highlights broader issues in disaster response, where administrative efficiency often clashes with social needs for proper mourning and commemoration. By analyzing these historical cases through the lens of corpse duality, this study contributes to contemporary discussions on disaster mortuary response, emphasizing the importance of considering both the material and symbolic dimensions of human remains.