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Authors:   The Society For Chinese Humanities In Korea, . . , . . 
Published: January 2021

In the 19th century, Korea, China, and Japan faced different value systems, such as pressure and civilization from Western powers. In other words, we experienced a paradigm shift from the Chinese order represented by the “concept of courtesy” to the modern international order based on the “concept of national equality”. On the premise of this point, MaJianZhong's 東行三錄 is a vivid record that stood at the very center of the establishment of a new order in East Asia based on the periodic and political background of modern China and Joseon. Therefore, this study attempted to clarify the reorganization of the modern Chinese order, the response of China, the transformation of the perception of Joseon, and the modern transformation of the relationship between Korea and China through a political intent on 東行三錄. One of the pillars of 東行三錄 is the reorganization of the modern Chinese order and China's response. In the 19th century, China faced the Western powers in earnest through a new way of bargaining between countries, defined as a “treaty system”. And this appears in the form of a challenge to the traditional sovereignty of Chinese countries, in other words, in the form of denial and reorganization of the traditional international order in East Asia. In the process of mediating and signing a treaty between Joseon and Western powers such as the US, Britain, France, and Germany, MaJianZhong focused on obtaining the approval of the Qing's sustenance over Joseon. The traditional relationship between Qing and Joseon was order of courtesy represented by tributary appointment relationship, but the Qing did not directly engage in Joseon's internal affairs and diplomacy. The relationship between the two countries was different from the relationship between the suzerain country and the subordinate country in the exercise of the sovereignty stipulated in international law. In order to overcome this reality, China attempted to change from order of courtesy to a relationship between actual domination and subjugation, and further stipulate the rules of subordination within the treaty between Joseon and Western powers. Through this process, China was able to pursue a transition to a practical immediate release policy. Another pillar of 東行三錄 is the transformation of Joseon consciousness and the modern transition process of Korea-China relations. Establishment of treaty relations between Joseon and Western powers meant that the traditional relationship, gyorin was practically ended. MaJianZhong's perception of Joseon is based on this periodic and political process. Therefore, this study analyzes the process recorded in 東行三錄 into the recognition of traditional Joseon-China relations, the modernization of Joseon, and the recognition of the Im-O Military Revolt and Lee Haeung. Moreover, the conversion of Korea-China relations was identified. In connection with the modern transformation of the relations between Korea and China, China imposed a new form of “tributary state” system on Joseon. In particular, the political and military external pressure exerted by China after the Im-O Military Revolt was a decisive factor that hindered Joseon's transition to modern society. In addition, this “tributary state” system interfered with both internal and external affairs of Joseon. Moreover, the Qing's rule of thumb followed the Western imperialist state's domination, which is the colonial rule. Considering these points, MaJianZhong's 東行三 錄 shows the coexistence and confrontation between the tributary appointment relationship and the modern international order amid a common perception of the modern destiny of both Korea and China.