Government of Joseon

bureaucrat in imperial China

The ' () or kwagŏ were the national civil service examinations' under the Goryeo (918–1392) and Joseon (1392–1910) periods of Korea. These typically demanding tests measured candidates' ability of writing composition and knowledge of the Chinese classics. The form of writing varied from literature to proposals on management of the state. Technical subjects were also tested to appoint experts on medicine, interpretation, accounting, law etc. These were the primary route for most people to achieve positions in the bureaucracy.

thumb|250px|The appointment certificate of the Ha Yeon's Prime Minister The Yŏngŭijŏng () or Chief State Councilor was a member of the State Council of Joseon and the highest government position in the Joseon period of Korean history. The Yŏngŭijŏng held roles similar to a modern-day prime minister of a presidential system. As the senior member of the Chief State Council, the Yŏngŭijŏng participated in the administration of general government affairs alongside the Chwaŭijŏng and Uŭijŏng.

Royal styles and titles during the Joseon period

The hyangyak (; Vietnamese: Hương ước (鄉約)) was a contractual arrangement that allowed for a degree of local government in the history of Korea and Vietnam.

The Chwaŭijŏng (), also known as the Left State Councilor or Second State Councilor, was a member of the State Council of Joseon. The Chwaŭijŏng was subordinate in rank only to the Yŏngŭijŏng, the highest-ranking official of the Joseon government, during the Joseon period of Korea (1392–1910). Only one official was appointed to the position and was variously referred to as Chwasang, Chwajŏngsŭng, Chwagyu, Chwahap, or Chwadae.

Uŭijŏng (), also known as the Right State Councilor, was the Third State Councillor of the Uijeongbu (State Council) during the Joseon period of Korea (1392–1897). The Uŭijŏng was variously referred to as Usang, Ujŏngsŭng, Ugyu, Uhap, or Udae.