일제강점기 고전의 형성에 대한 일고찰 - 재조일본인과 조선광문회의 고전 간행을 중심으로 -

Abstract

This paper focuses on the publication businesses run by Choi Namsŏn and Japanese residents in Korea involved in formation of Korean modern classic. Those organisations that looked into Korean classical texts included ‘Chosŏn kosŏ kanhaenghoe’, ‘Chosŏn yŏn’guhoe’ and ‘Chayut’ogusa’. Purposes of these organisations in running publication business differed a bit: ‘Chosŏn kosŏ kanhaenghoe’ to prepare for Korea-Japan annexation, to investigate historical materials and to research Korean history and ethnicity; ‘Chosŏn yŏn’guhoe’ to ensure internal stability of the colony in commemoration of the annexation; and‘Chayut’ogusa’ to study Korean ethnicity, having recognized Korean-Japanese assimilation as an urgent issue after the March First movement. The three organisations published 162 classical books with financial supports from either the Residency-General or the Government-General in order to cooperate in colonial rule. In order to stand up against Japanese-residents’ such businesses and to protect Korean Geist, Choi Namsŏn established ‘Chosŏn Kwangmunhoe’ and published forty-six classical books. He started this business with impetus from Japanese’ fervour for collecting and studying Korean classic, which he experienced through his study-abroad in Japan, and with painfulness for the loss of Korean books. That is, he started the business with a belief that rediscovering Korean tradition and enhancing Korean national identity through the ‘Chosŏn Kwangmunhoe’ business was the only way to recover the national sovereignty.