전기 도입에 의한 전통의 균열과 새로운 문명의 학습 - 1880~1905년을 중심으로

Abstract

Lifestyle of people of Chosen dynasty changed significantly between 1887-1905 with electricity, which was invented and developed in the West. In 1887, King Gojong introduced electric lights in palace; in 1898, electric cars were introduced in Hansung, the capital of Chosen; the electric street lights were installed and; a nation-wide telegraph system was established, as well.

As a result, significant changes to traditional lifestyle were witnessed not only in Hansung, but in the entire Choseon. Among them was the fact that men and woman shared the same seats in electric cars. Also, women went out to streets during the day and more men walked around the city at night. The highest class, Yangban, had to wait for the electric car at a station just like any other ordinary men waiting for the car with fare.

Telegraph system also brought about great changes. With telegraph system, it was easier for people to exchange personal correspondences, and they had better access to news and information around the world. Through these changes brought by electricity, people of Choseon acquired the western lifestyle before 1905.