Williŏm Kŭrip’isŭ ŭi Ilbon kwa Han’guk insik, 1876-1910” [William E. Griffis’ perception of Japan and Korea, 1876-1910]

This article deals with William E. Griffis who came to Japan during 1870-1874 and became a Japan-Korean expert in the US. Compared to the fact that Griffis was well known for his writings, Corea, the Hermit Nation, his basic idea about civilization was not well known. Beneath his understanding of civilization, religious belief took the central position. However, he used analogy between Anglo-Saxon civilization and Japanese one because the latter also permitted Christian evangelism in 1873, the policy that Christianity would be cornerstone in civilization building. To him, historical development following linear passage was important. Religion was no exception. In Japan, Buddhism was popular and worthwhile to be studied. It would lead to make a favorable environment for Christian evangelism. Korea was the opposite country to Japan. One the one hand Korea was not “open” to western powers until early 1880s; on the other hand, Christianity was not permitted while Buddhism was suppressed. Therefore, Griffis severely criticized Korean Confucianism, the dominant ideology. In relation to Korea, his understanding was heavily influenced by Japanese national studies, Kokugaku. His understanding of Korea contributed to Japanese political aims in Korea with his influential book up to his death in 1928.