Korean Literati

Korean literati refers to the educated elite, often scholars and intellectuals, who valued literary, artistic, and philosophical pursuits, particularly from the Joseon Dynasty period (1392–1897). They played a key role in shaping Korean culture through poetry, calligraphy, painting, and Confucian ideals. Their activities emphasized moral integrity, intellectual refinement, and social responsibility. The literati often engaged in scholarly debates and promoted Confucian values as guiding principles for governance and society. In essence, they were the culturally sophisticated class dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge, artistic expression, and moral development within Korea's historical and cultural framework.