Scriptural Interpretation and the Critique of Zhu Xi’s Neo-Confucianism in Modernizing Korea

Key Points

• This work examines Yi Gyu-joon and Seol Tae-hee's interpretations of Confucian texts to critique Zhu Xi's neo-Confucianism. It aims to explore their philosophical implications during Korea's modernization.
• Analyzes the scriptural interpretations of Yi Gyu-joon and Seol Tae-hee.
• Compares their approaches to Zhu Xi's doctrines and the philosophical context of 19th-century Korea.
• Investigates the redefinition of Confucian foundations through modern contextual readings.
• Yi Gyu-joon's interpretation emphasizes the integration of mind and matter through liqi theory, advocating a practical approach to learning in the context of The Great Learning.
• Seol Tae-hee critiques Zhu Xi's rationalist perspectives, promoting a dynamic understanding of existence through his interpretative framework.
• Both thinkers collectively seek to reconstruct Confucian thought as a practical guide responding to contemporary societal challenges.

Abstract