Born into Rank? Status and Social Mobility in Chosŏn Korea (1392-1910)

Lecture by Jing Hu (State Library of Berlin).

This lecture introduces the study of social status and mobility in the Chosŏn dynasty, addressing key concepts in social history such as status, social structure, stratification, and mobility within the context of premodern Korean society. Drawing on primary sources, including examination rosters, household registers, and genealogies, the lecture will guide students in exploring how individual social positions were defined and negotiated in Chosŏn society. It also highlights digital methodologies for social history research, with particular emphasis on social network analysis and the use of research platforms.