• Korean Journal of Heritage: History & Science
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• v.55 no.4
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• pp.242-275
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• 2022

This study tries to reveal the structure of the "Kisun"(senior envoy ship) taken by senior envoys for the 10^th to 12^th visits to Japan from the perspective of professional shipbuilding engineering focusing on the theory of the ship in the travel logs of royal envoys to Japan (Sahaengrok) written by Joseon Tongsinsa that includes 12 visits to Japan for about 200 years from 1607 to 1811. The results of the study showed that the size of Kisun for the 10^th to 12^th envoy visits was 19 Pa (把) and a half in length and 6 Pa (把) and 2 Cheok (尺) in width. The height of the Sampan was found to be 2 Pa (把) and 1 Cheok (尺) based on records in Gyemisusarok and Jeungjeonggyorinji. The structure of Kisun was different for each visit but, it was found that Kisun was mainly composed of a main deck, bow (bow plate, stem plate), stern (stern plate), Sampan, Meonge (support), Garyong (support), Sinbang, Gungji, deck, two masts and sail, Gurejjak (mast support), Panok, stern Panok, Taru, dodger, anchor reel, stairs, rail, rudder, oar, and anchor. In addition, wood and iron nails were used together for connection. It was also found that the sail was made of herbage and cotton. This study found that Kisun, which was operated for the 10^th and 12^th envoy visits, was big in terms of length and height among the Joseon Tongsinsa fleet to show the authority and dignity of Joseon and that it had passages outside on the sides of the vessel and paddles were located between the sides and Panok structure and rails were installed on four sides on the Panok, improving stability and linear beauty. The walls of Panok were decorated with the royal Dancheong pattern and fancy murals. In addition, it was found that they wished for a safe voyage by drawing a demon face on the bow. Therefore, it was revealed that Kisun, which was taken by envoys as recorded in travel logs, was made by the state and equipped with structures and functions that enabled international voyages.