• Korean Journal of Heritage: History & Science
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• v.56 no.4
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• pp.6-22
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• 2023

The National Museum of Korea's 'Shinchungmyeong Jochong' is the sole firearm in the country bearing inscriptions written in ink('辛丑改備江華庫藏'). Thanks to this written record, it is possible to determine where this firearm was stored and to make an estimate of the time when it was stored. Additionally, it is a valuable artifact that has been exceptionally well preserved and has an artistic design. However, research into the operational period, form, and structural characteristics of this firearm has been limited to date. This study aimed to shed light on the operational period, form, and structural features of the 'Shinchukmyeong Jochong.' To achieve this, the specifications and structural characteristics of the firearm were examined, and comparisons were made with 17 other extant firearms and their attributes. The results confirmed that the 'Shinchungmyeong Jochong' is a representative example of the typical firearms of the Joseon Dynasty. Next, the timing, background, and production subject of the Ganghwado containment of the Jochong were tracked based on letters found with the Jochong. The investigation revealed an entry in the 'Records of King Jeongjo'(『正祖實錄』) indicating that a significant amount of military supplies, including firearms, were stored on Ganghwado in December of the 5th year of Shinchung(1781). The decision to store these materials in Ganghwado Island may have been due to the perception of the Joseon decision-makers, who strategically valued Ganghwado Island, and the relocation of 'Tongaoyeong'(統禦營) and the integration with 'Jinmuyeong'(鎭撫營). After acquisition, it is presumed that the firearm was operated at locations like 'Jinmuyeong'(鎭撫營). The firearm's production is presumed to have been associated associated with institutions such as 'Gungisi'(軍器寺). In conclusion, the 'Shinchungmyeong Jochong' exemplifies a typical firearm of the Joseon Dynasty, and it is likely that it was stored on Ganghwado in December of 1781. Its production is believed to have been related to institutions such as 'Gungisi'. Following its acquisition, it is presumed that the firearm was operated at locations including 'Jinmuyeong'.