Sangmin

Definition

Sangmin refers to the commoners or the lower class in Joseon Korea, situated below the yangban elite in the social hierarchy. This class was primarily made up of farmers, artisans, and laborers, playing a vital role in the economy and daily life of the period. The sangmin's experiences and contributions are crucial for understanding the societal structure and cultural developments of Joseon Korea, as they represent the majority of the population who influenced economic practices and community life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sangmin comprised the majority of Joseon's population, mainly consisting of peasants who worked the land and produced food for society.
2. Despite being a lower class, sangmin had certain rights and responsibilities that contributed to their status within the community.
3. The economic stability of Joseon heavily depended on the sangmin class, as their agricultural production supported both local markets and trade.
4. The cultural contributions of the sangmin are often overlooked, yet they played a key role in folk traditions, arts, and festivals that shaped Korean identity.
5. Sangmin were subject to heavy taxation and could face social mobility challenges due to rigid class structures imposed by Confucian values.

Review Questions

• How did the sangmin class contribute to the economy and daily life in Joseon Korea?
  • The sangmin class was essential to the economy of Joseon Korea as they were primarily engaged in agriculture and various trades. They provided food for both local consumption and trade, which was vital for sustaining urban centers. Their labor allowed the yangban class to focus on governance and culture while commoners formed tight-knit communities that celebrated their own traditions and contributed to local economies.
• In what ways did Confucian ideals impact the lives and social status of sangmin during the Joseon period?
  • Confucian ideals established a strict social hierarchy that positioned yangban above sangmin, leading to limited social mobility for commoners. While Confucianism emphasized loyalty and duty among all classes, it often marginalized sangmin by overlooking their contributions to society. This hierarchical view created barriers that affected educational opportunities and access to resources for the lower class, reinforcing their social standing.
• Evaluate how the experiences of sangmin reflect broader cultural developments in Joseon Korea during its history.
  • The experiences of sangmin reveal significant aspects of cultural developments in Joseon Korea as they were often at odds with the ideals propagated by the yangban elite. The rich traditions and folk practices developed by sangmin reflected an alternate cultural narrative that contrasted with the scholarly pursuits valued by yangban. This duality showcases a complex interplay between elite culture and popular traditions, illustrating how the lives of commoners shaped collective identity while influencing broader societal changes over time.

Related terms

Yangban: The yangban were the educated, aristocratic class in Joseon Korea, responsible for governance and culture, forming the ruling elite.

Confucianism:

Confucianism is a philosophical and ethical system that greatly influenced Joseon society, emphasizing hierarchy, respect for authority, and the importance of education.

Gentry: Gentry refers to individuals from the upper classes, typically landowners, who held social status but were not part of the ruling aristocracy.