A scholar’s diary from the early 19th century Hamgyeong Province reveals an astonishing scene of women’s equestrian martial arts in Joseon Dynasty’s frontier regions. Park Naegyeom, appointed as Northern Evaluator in 1827, meticulously documented his experiences in the “Bukmak Ilgi.” This sixth-rank military position, under the military governor, existed in both Hamgyeong and Pyeongan provinces. The women’s equestrian skills described in the diary would shock modern readers familiar with traditional views of Joseon-era women.
On October 14, despite the bitter cold of the lunar October, Park hosted a competition at Jinbyeonru. Participants demonstrated various military skills, including archery and horsemanship. Six female entertainers, dressed in full military gear, joined the event. These women, effectively serving as female soldiers, secured themselves in their saddles, drew bows, and shouted battle cries. They consistently outperformed their male counterparts in races. Park, awestruck, called the display “truly magnificent.” One can imagine his amazement at witnessing women shooting arrows from galloping horses. Despite such impressive displays, Joseon failed to properly integrate or develop female soldiers at the national level.
Recently, Queen Maxima of the Netherlands made headlines by participating in reserve training at age 54. She applied camouflage face paint, fired weapons, and tackled rope courses. This event underscores the urgency of security concerns in Europe and globally. It also highlights the expanding role of women in defense, mirroring the high global standing of South Korean female service members.
Just days ago, the ROK-U.S. Combined Division appointed its first female deputy commander, Brigadier General Moon Han-ok. Established in 2015, this division is a groundbreaking collaboration between U.S. forces and another nation’s military. While a U.S. Army brigadier general commands the division, the deputy commander is South Korean. As South Korean servicewomen continue to excel, it’s crucial that institutional support keeps pace with their growing capabilities. Unlike Joseon, modern South Korea must fully embrace and empower its female military talent.
/ Jeong Jin-oh, Director
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