Remarkable Discovery: Oldest 15th Century Exam Answer Sheet Unearthed in South Korea

Oldest Exam Answer Sheet from the 15th Century Discovered in South Korea

A significant archaeological find sheds light on ancient education practices

South Korea’s Korean Studies Central Research Institute has made a momentous discovery, unearthing the oldest known exam answer sheet dating back to the 15th century. The intact answer sheet, from the year 1447 during the reign of King Sejong, offers a unique glimpse into the educational customs and intellectual achievements of the time.

Previously, only twelve intact exam answer sheets were known to exist prior to the Imjin War. However, this recent discovery has added two more answer sheets, bringing the total to fourteen. This finding serves as evidence of the strict examination system implemented during the Joseon Dynasty.

Compared to the previously known oldest answer sheet from 1507, this newly discovered answer sheet predates it by 60 years, making it the oldest exam answer sheet from the 15th century. Its significance lies in its potential to provide valuable insights into the civil service examination system of the time.

Jeong Jong-so: A Scholar of High Acclaim

The owner of the discovered answer sheet was Jeong Jong-so, a renowned scholar who achieved the remarkable feat of placing second in the civil service examination in 1447. Jeong Jong-so hailed from the Yeongil Jeong clan, known for their influential role in Korean history. His success stands as a testament to his exceptional knowledge and intellectual prowess.

Jeong Jong-so’s descendant, Jeong Se-ah, played a significant role as a rebel leader during the Imjin War, contributing greatly to the resistance movement. The answer sheet was donated to the Korean Studies Central Research Institute by the Yeongil Jeong clan, reflecting their commitment to preserving and promoting Korean cultural heritage.

Promoting Historical Preservation and Research

The Korean Studies Central Research Institute, with its collection of over 620,000 personal records, is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Korean cultural heritage. The discovery of this ancient answer sheet underscores the importance of historical document preservation and the continued development of historical research.

Utilizing modern technologies like RFID, the Korean Studies Central Research Institute enhances its management and preservation practices, ensuring the accessibility of these valuable historical artifacts for future generations. This remarkable find serves as a milestone in Korean historical research, expanding our understanding of the civil service examination system and the intellectual achievements of Joseon scholars.