Joseon Dynasty Housing: Daily Life and Traditional Architecture

Joseon Dynasty Housing: Daily Life and Traditional Architecture

Introduction

The housing culture during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897) in Korea is characterized by traditional architecture and living arrangements based on Neo-Confucian principles. This period witnessed the consolidation of a unified Korean state, the entrenchment of Confucian ideals, and the promotion of classical Korean culture, literature, and science and technology. Understanding the daily life aspects of Joseon society, particularly housing, provides valuable insights into the customs, beliefs, and values of the era.

Architecture and Construction

The Joseon Dynasty saw the construction of numerous wooden houses due to the abundance of wood resources available in Korea. Large parts of the country's territory are covered by wooded mountain areas, making timber a readily available material for housing. Wooden houses were used not only for living quarters but also for making utensils and work tools. The Hanok, or traditional Korean house, features a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, with many buildings having a garden or courtyard that connects the interior and exterior spaces.

Neo-Confucian Living Arrangements

During the Joseon Dynasty, the residential space in the Hanok was divided in accordance with Neo-Confucian ideas, with the women's quarters called "anch'ae" and the inner room (bedroom) called "anbang." The men's quarters were referred to as "sarangch'ae," and the main room, where men studied and received guests, was called "sarangbang." Traditional furniture was categorized based on the space in which it would be used, with "anbang" furniture for the women's quarters and "sarangbang" furniture for the men's quarters.

Women's Quarters and Their Transformation

The Joseon Dynasty saw the emergence of a male-oriented moral system governing family relations known as chongbŏp. This system also influenced living arrangements, with women's quarters (anchae) separated from men's (sarangchae) by a fence. This separation led to the widespread notion of isolating women from men at a young age, further emphasizing the perceived superiority of men over women.

Sustainable Landscapes and Gardens

The traditional Korean residential environment during the Joseon Dynasty also included sustainable landscapes and gardens, which were designed to provide natural beauty, shade, and fresh air. These landscapes contributed to the overall well-being of the inhabitants, demonstrating the importance of nature in daily life.

Conclusion

The housing culture during the Joseon Dynasty is a testament to the blend of traditional architecture, Neo-Confucian principles, and the rich natural resources of Korea. The daily life of the people during this period was deeply influenced by their living arrangements, with separate quarters for men and women, and a strong emphasis on separating the genders from an early age. The sustainable landscapes and gardens were a vital aspect of the residential environment, contributing to the overall quality of life for the inhabitants.