A Study on the Jeju Moksa’s(濟州牧使) Perception of Jeju

This study examines the perspectives of Jejumoksa(濟州牧使) during the Joseon Dynasty and explores their significance. The Jejumoksa held comprehensive authority over administrative, judicial, and military affairs in Jeju, and their records are more extensive than those of other local officials. Lee Won-jin(李元鎭) compiled the Tamnaji(耽羅誌) based on the Dongguk Yeoji Seungnam(東國輿地勝覽), engraving it to make Jeju known beyond the island. His work laid the foundation for future studies of Jeju. Lee Ik-tae(李益泰), through his Jiyeongrok(知瀛錄), highlighted Jeju’s strategic maritime position and emphasized Confucian education by enshrining Song Si-yeol(宋時烈) at Gyullim Seowon(橘林書院), seeking to expand the influence of the Noron scholarly lineage in the region. Lee Hyeong-sang(李衡祥) sought to transform Jeju's cultural practices by reforming local rituals and eradicating shamanistic rites. In contrast, Lee Won-jo(李源祚) displayed a more inclusive view of Jeju. He composed the Yeongju Sipgyeong(瀛州十景) and documented oral literature as “extraordinary tales,” preserving them in their original form. These differing perspectives, shaped by each magistrate’s historical context and personal disposition, provide valuable insight into the perception and governance of Jeju during the Joseon Dynasty.