The Appeals of Three Toegye School Scholars in 1666 and Their Impact

This study is based on the “1666 Appeal by Ryu Se-cheol” (hereinafter referred to as “the Event”). During this time, Jeoljai Ryu Won-ji, Mokjae Hong Yeo-ha, and Galam Lee Hyeon-il jointly composed the “Uirye So” (Appeal on Rituals). This document was drafted with the purpose of revising the mourning rituals implemented in the Year of the Earth Pig (1666). However, these three scholars differed in age, academic, and social experiences. Although their objectives were aligned, the method and content of their arguments inevitably varied. This study aims to examine the similarities and differences(同異) in the three versions of the “Uirye So.” Additionally, it will explore the influence these three scholars had on the Toegye School after the Event, analyzing how the Event functioned in bringing about changes not only for the individuals but also for the school of thought. The research conducted with these objectives in mind can be summarized in the following three points. The first point is the “similarities and differences (同異)” in the “Uirye So.” The differences are particularly noticeable in how Jeoljai emphasized the “humiliation suffered by the King,” Mokjae focused on balance and standards, and Galam presented “public opinion” as the criterion. Additionally, while Jeoljai and Mokjae argued for the uniqueness of the state (國家不同), they still remained within the realm of familial duties (親親), whereas Galam prioritized respect for authority (尊尊). The second point is the differences in changes after the Event. Jeoljai shifted his stance through criticism of Yulgok's scholarship, Mokjae immersed himself in historical research as if the Event had never occurred, and Galam established the study of kingship while systematizing the criticism and defense of Yulgok and Toegye's teachings, making them the zeitgeist of the Toegye School. The third point concerns the impact on the Toegye School, with Galam being particularly prominent. During the political turmoil of the Hwan-guk period, the Toegye School found itself at a political disadvantage, and Galam's submission of the Study of Kingship and his strong defense of Li and his intense response to the Westerners acted as a focal point and a defensive mechanism. This is the reason he could be called the “Reviver of the Toegye School.”