Origins & Early Life

Kim Chŏnghŭi (Korean: 김정희; pronounced [kimdʑʌŋçi]; 1786–1856) was one of the most celebrated epigraphists, scholars, and practitioners of calligraphy of Korea's later Joseon period. He was a member of the Gyeongju Kim clan. He used various art names: Wandang (阮堂), Chusa (秋史), Yedang (禮堂), Siam (詩庵), Gwapa (果坡), Nogwa (老果) etc. (up to 503 by some estimates).

Pivotal Works & Achievements

He is especially celebrated for having transformed Korean epigraphy and for having created the "Chusa-che" (秋史體; lit. 'Chusa writing style') inspired by his study of ancient Korean and Chinese epitaphs. His ink paintings, especially of orchids, are equally admired. As a scholar, he belonged to the Silhak (Practical Learning) school also known as the Bukhak (北學, "Northern Learning"). He was related to Queen Jeongsun, the second wife of King Yeongjo, and by his adoptive mother, Nam Yang-hong, he was a cousin to Namyeon-gun Yi Gu, who was destined to be the grandfather of King Gojong (高宗, later titled 光武帝 Gwangmu Emperor.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

1852–1919). Heungseon Daewongun (興宣大院君, 1820–1898), King Gojong's father who served as his regent and was also a noted calligrapher, was one of Kim's pupils for a while. Kim was born...

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