The Jungin Officials of Kyujanggak during the Reign of King Jeongjo

So far, the human composition of the Kyujanggak(奎章閣) has been studied primarily through the roles of the Gaksin(閣臣), Geomseogwan(檢書官), and Gakri(閣吏). This article, however, focuses on the Gaksokgwan(閣屬官), a special group of Jungin-class (middle class) officials. Gaksokgwan was a unique position found only in Kyujanggak, and their duties reflected the characteristics of Kyujanggak. Furthermore, as Jungin in a miscellaneous position, they also reveal the trends of the Jungin class, which were different from those of Dongban(東班) officials. This paper examines their role within the Kyujanggak through their duties and organizational structure.<br/> The human resources of the Kyujanggak were composed of Gaksin, Gaksokgwan, Gakri, and Gakrye(閣隷). Among these, the term Gaksokgwan was a general designation for the Jungin-class officials. The scope of Gaksokgwan primarily encompassed the Sagwon(司卷), Yeongcheom(領籤), and Gakgam(閣監), while also including the Geomseogwan and Gamseo(監書). Although each Gaksokgwan had distinct, specific duties, they often performed a broad range of tasks that went beyond their prescribed regulations.<br/> The Seokgeocheong(石渠廳), where the Sagwon and Yeongcheom were assigned, employed a large number of people, comparable to the Imunwon(摛文院). This department, like the Aegjeongseo(掖庭署), served as a body that directly assisted the king at his closest side and executed royal commands. It also acted as a medium for communication between the king and the Gaksin. The Sagwon and Yeongcheom performed comprehensive roles beyond their specific duties and served as the king’s closest associates.