In this paper, I tried to analyze Kim Bang-geol’s literature and research the meaning of his writings. Especially I focused on his latter years as he served to the public at that period. Also, most of his writings in his collection were written in his late years. So that I reviewed his view of life and literary world through his writings since after 1675.
Kim Bang-geol was one of the most important feature in the Nam-in party during the King Sukjong era. He went through three times of political change in 20 years, and he stood at the center of party strife. In his public service, he mainly was in charge of remonstration to the King.
With this background, I studied his memorials to the King for resignation and poems of late age. Because we can see the meaning of his political writings and his attitude of miserable life. For this purpose, I analyzed his writings like following.
First, I summarized his politic biography and writings. He wrote most of writings in his late age. And this mostly correspond with his political life. This means that we should read his writings carefully.
Second, I analyzed his memorials to the King. As he regarded remonstration as important obligation of vassals, he admonished to the King without hesitation. We can see he was a man of integrity from this.
Third, I analyzed his poems. He wanted to go back his hometown while he was in the government service. He always hoped to retire and lead a quiet life. Though he could not achieve his goal, his heart was in the right place.