Gisaengs

Gisaengs were women in Korea during the Joseon Dynasty who were trained in literature, music, and dance. They served as entertainers and companions to yangban, the upper class. Their roles were multifaceted, encompassing artistic performance, intellectual conversation, and sometimes, more intimate services. Gisaengs were typically recruited from lower social strata, often as orphans or from families facing financial hardship. They received rigorous training from a young age, mastering skills such as playing instruments like the gayageum and geomungo, singing, poetry recitation, and calligraphy. Beyond their artistic talents, gisaengs were expected to be witty conversationalists and knowledgeable about current affairs. Their social status was complex, positioned between commoners and the aristocracy, and they were often subject to societal prejudices. Despite these challenges, some gisaengs achieved considerable fame for their artistic achievements and intellectual prowess. Their lives and contributions offer a unique perspective into the social and cultural dynamics of Joseon society.