Mass Production during the Pre-Industrial Revolution: Goryeo and Joseon Era
by?Yunki Jo?| July 17, 2023
Building upon our previous discussion regarding mass production in the pre-industrial revolution era in the West and China, I would like to continue by sharing a tale from Korean history that exemplifies mass production.
Goryeo Era - Mass Production of Goryeo Ware (Celadon), Gangjin, Jeollanam-do
While it is not accurate to claim that Goryeo Celadon, a prominent artwork of its era, was mass-produced like modern-day goods, recent archaeological findings at a kiln site in Gangjin, Jeollanam-do indicate that the production process of Goryeo Celadon was, to some extent, organized and quality-controlled. The discovered production facilities for Goryeo Celadon in Gangjin consist of:
In Gangjin, a total of 188 kiln sites have been discovered, providing evidence that Goryeo Celadon, which served as a coveted item among nobility during the Goryeo era and a highly sought-after export commodity, was produced on a large scale and maintained quality control in accordance with the standards set by the nation at that time.
Goryeo Celadon possessed an exceptionally high intrinsic value, akin to today's semiconductor industry, and its manufacturing technology was an extraordinary achievement that no other country of that era (and even the present) could replicate.
Hence, drawing a parallel between the "Samsung Semiconductor Pyeongtaek Plant" and the "Goryeo Celadon Gangjin Plant" is not unreasonable in the least.
Joseon Era - Revolutionary Printing Breakthrough and Mass Production of Books
During the Joseon era, an advanced system for mass-producing books was established. The utilization of movable metal types enabled the large-scale printing of books. It is important to highlight that the significant advancement in book production did not take place during the Goryeo era when movable metal type was initially invented, but rather during the reign of King Sejong.
The metal movable type used before the reign of King Sejong:
① Copper-made type molds were filled with melted wax.
② The movable type was inserted and securely fixed.
③ Ink was applied, and printing was carried out.
Despite this breakthrough, the instability of the wax cause the movable type to easily shake, leading to misalignment after printing. Consequently, only about 10 sheets could be printed in a day. While it may have been assumed that metal movable type was invented for the purpose of achieving rapid mass production (that's what I thought too), it appears that the primary objective of metal movable type was actually long-term preservation, as compared to wooden type.
Therefore, King Sejong spearheaded the improvement of the system for mass-producing books by focusing on enhancing the casting process. He ensured that the movable type was precisely shaped into squares and could be processed smoothly. Through the reformation of the existing printing method, the printing capacity saw a significant increase, from less than 10 sheets per day prior to the improvement to over 40 sheets or more.
You might wonder whether printing over 40 sheets per day is considered impressive. However, during that period, China used movable type made of bronze, which had lower productivity and higher costs compared to wooden type. As a result, China reverted to wooden block printing. Additionally, it is believed that the Japanese during the same era were entirely unfamiliar with metal movable type.
The advancements in printing technology led by King Sejong ultimately contributed to the cultural flourishing of Joseon. By utilizing metal movable type, the central government was able to print a vast number of books. These printed materials were then disseminated to the provinces, where wooden blocks were carved based on the printed copies for further book production. As a result, the quantity of books produced witnessed a remarkable increase compared to before.
Regrettably, the printing technique improved by King Sejong did not witness further advancements thereafter. Even during the decline of Joseon, the printing method remained unchanged, with the process of inserting movable type into the type frame, applying ink, and individually pressing it onto paper, followed by binding the printed sheets together.
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Joseon Era - Mass Production of Weapons, Systematic Development, and Quality Management
During the Joseon era, there was a central institution known as "Gungi Gam" (later expanded and reorganized as "Gungi Si" during the reign of King Sejong) that oversaw the production and quality management of all weapons. This institution played a role similar to present-day organizations such as the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, Agency for Defense Development, and Defense Agency for Technology and Quality. In essence, even 600 years ago, there were established production facilities, research institutes, and stringent quality standards for the mass production of weapons.
King Sejong, who achieved mass production in book printing, not only fostered a cultured nation but also transformed Joseon into an advanced defense science country comparable to the present-day United States through the systematic mass production of weapons. King Sejong's notable accomplishments in defense-related endeavors include:
① Completion of Chongtong Registration: The improvement and standardization of cannons to ensure optimal firearm performance. Standardization projects were undertaken.
② Development of firearms: Sechongtong (compact pistol), Sajeonchongtong, Paljeonchongtong, Cheonjachongtong, Jijachongtong.
③ Rocket (?) development: Jungshingijeon, Daeshingijeon (two-stage rockets, measuring 5.6m in length, weighing 4-5kg, with a flight range of 1km).
④ Development of multiple-launch missiles (??): Hwacha.
These achievements were made possible thanks to the following production system and quality management:
① Implementing standardized design blueprints, rigorous technical regulations, and product inspection systems across production facilities nationwide.
② Utilizing 0.3mm ("ri") as the smallest unit of measurement in the design of various explosive weapons.
③ Implementing subdivision, division of labor, and the introduction of monthly tasks (similar to the current performance-based system) in the manufacturing process of weapons.
④ Exercising thorough post-production management of explosive weapons, including engraving details such as the year of production, weight, amount of explosives, supervisor, and the craftsman's mark.
Through these measures, not only did Joseon enhance its defense capabilities with a system comparable to today's production systems, but it also improved its overall production capacity.
Over the past two weeks, I have discussed how mass production was achieved before the Industrial Revolution by exploring history. Through this exploration driven by curiosity, we have learned that even in eras without the assistance of fossil fuel-powered machinery, mass production was still possible, albeit at a slower pace compared to today's rapid innovation. There were clear advancements during those times.
As we confront the urgent need for drastic changes in our fossil fuel-dependent plants due to climate change, we may find wisdom in overcoming the current climate crisis by reflecting on our past experiences.
Wishing you a wonderful week ahead!
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