The Operation of Close Retainers(Geunsigwan) and Its Political Background in 4th-5th Century Baekje

This paper examines the operation of close retainers(Geunsigwan, 近侍官) in Baekje during the 4th to 5th centuries and the political circumstances that formed the background of their use. To do so, it identifies fragments of evidence concerning Geunsigwan found in earlier historical sources and investigates their characteristics. The earliest known Geunsigwan in Baekje appear during the reign of King Geunchogo, such as the Boshi(博士) Go Heung(高興) and the Changshi(長史) Jang Wi(張威), who was dispatched as an envoy to the Song dynasty. These figures, of Chinese origin, served as literary officials who advised the king and drafted official documents based on their understanding of Chinese culture and institutions. By the reign of King Gaero, the term “close retainer” (Geunsigwan, 近侍官) appears in historical records, indicating that Geunsigwan were officially functioning in Baekje. This emergence is closely tied to the political situation of the time. King Gaero excluded traditional aristocratic factions that opposed him and instead employed Geunsigwan to handle state affairs and serve as a loyal political base. During the reign of King Dongseong(東城王), the operation of Geunsigwan expanded further. Officials bearing titles such as Naeto(內頭), Yeonggun(領軍), and Taishou(太守) are attested in the sources. This development was influenced by Baekje’s unique situation at the time and the personal background of King Dongseong himself. Following attacks from Goguryeo, Baekje suffered internal and external turmoil, and the royal authority was weakened. Moreover, King Dongseong ascended the throne as a young king born in Japan. In response to these challenges, he actively utilized Geunsigwan in national governance to strengthen royal authority. As a result, the political authority and status of Geunsigwan were elevated and expanded. In conclusion, the operation of Geunsigwan in Baekje was closely linked to the state of royal power at the time.