An Analysis of the Examination Success Patterns of Mungwa Passers during the Reign of King Gojong (1863–1894)

This study analyzes the relationship between the distinction records in the Sungkyunkwan gwasi (academic examinations) and the pathways of successful candidates to the mungwa (civil service examinations) during King Gojong’s reign. The study covers 1,765 mungwa passers (310 jinsa or saengwon and 1,455 yuhak) and divides the analysis into three periods according to the promulgation of educational regulations in Sungkyunkwan under King Gojong. The findings show that regional and status-based disparities in distinction records gradually diminished. Regionally, the proportion of students from the provinces increased, narrowing the gap with Hansung. Both jinsa/saengwon and yuhak showed relatively high success rates in jesul (composition) gwasi, whereas success rates in kanggyeong (Confucian classics) gwasi remained relatively low. Furthermore, the privileges of direct admission to the mungwa through jikbujeonsi were significantly expanded, particularly in relation to jesul gwasi. These changes demonstrate that the Sungkyunkwan gwasi became a major pathway for the mungwa, strengthening its status as an institutional gateway.