The Transformation of the Sanjik System and Social Hierarchy from the Goryeo to Early Joseon Period

This study examines how the Sanjik (散職, honorary official titles without active duties) system developed and changed from the Goryeo period to the early Joseon period, and how it influenced the bureaucratic system and social order. In early Goryeo, Dongjeongjik (同正職) was given to those who first entered government service. It worked as a temporary position before receiving a regular office (Siljik). Through this system, the government brought new entrants into the central bureaucracy, helping to build a new ruling structure and social order centered on central officials. Although its role became weaker over time, it still allowed people without official posts to gain official status. In late Goryeo, titles such as Geomgyojik (檢校職) and Cheomseoljik (添設職) were given too widely, which lowered the value of official titles and disrupted the social order. In response, the early Joseon government reorganized the system by separating those with and without experience in substantive office and by removing the economic benefits tied to these titles. Instead, Yeongjik (影職) was introduced to reward clerks and soldiers who had completed their service. As a type of Sanjik, Yeongjik made it possible for more people to gain official status. Although it did not usually lead to higher positions, it still provided an official status. During the Imjin War, it was also used as a reward for those who donated grain, allowing more commoners to enter the lower levels of government. As a result, the social order became more flexible in late Joseon.