[Lee Jonggil on Film] Sejong’s Personnel Philosophy Is the Future of Korean Science and Technology

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A Leader Who Recognized Individual Talents
King Sejong and the Value of Unique Strengths
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Why Talented Individuals Fade Away
The Systemic Barriers to Scientific Progress in Korea
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Empathy and Trust Beyond Results
The Lasting Legacy of Nurturing Researchers

In 1444, King Sejong appointed Jeong Cheok as the head of the Sayeogwon (Bureau of Interpreters), saying, "Inyu Ilneung"-meaning that everyone excels at something. He believed that there was no such thing as a perfect talent. Sejong was convinced that if one could identify and utilize a person’s strengths, anyone could become a valuable asset.

Indeed, during Sejong’s reign, talented individuals from various fields distinguished themselves. Jang Yeong-sil is a prime example. Not only was he freed from slavery, but he also rose to the rank of Daehogun, a third-level official. Few officials would have agreed with such a decision that shook the rigid social hierarchy of Joseon. The film "Forbidden Dream" closely examines the inevitable conflicts that must have arisen.

"Why is this not allowed?"

"It was already more than generous to free a former slave, but to grant him an official post? That is utterly unacceptable, Your Majesty."

"A slave is also a subject of Joseon."

"While the people are indeed the foundation of the nation, the social hierarchy of Joseon exists to maintain order."

"That is precisely why I stripped him of his slave status, is it not?" "Your Majesty, even if he is freed, nothing changes. A person’s innate nature cannot be changed through education."

"If the character of the people cannot be reformed, then why do you govern at all? Is it simply to enjoy power while lording over the people?"

"Your Majesty, we are upholding the laws of Joseon. Granting freedom was already a great favor; perhaps you should reconsider appointing him to office."

"Although his status as a slave was ordained by heaven, so too was Jang Yeong-sil’s talent. If I must choose between the two, I will choose his talent."

It is inconceivable that talented individuals existed only during Sejong’s reign. There must have been countless "Jang Yeong-sil"s, but most were unable to demonstrate their abilities or simply faded away after being neglected. Ultimately, the advancement of science and technology requires not only capable leaders but also a supportive social system.

What about our current reality? Noh Hwanjin, a professor at the University of Science and Technology (UST) and a former official at the Ministry of Science and ICT, stated at a National Assembly seminar in July last year, "Politics and bureaucracy are ruining science and technology in Korea."

"Directors and bureau chiefs tend to discern the intentions of newly appointed ministers and vice ministers, and then avoid any words or actions that might contradict their wishes. When they visit research sites, they essentially force researchers to accept that this is the will of the leadership. Researchers, for their part, are already prepared for this. For them, survival takes precedence over genuine research and development."

Under the current system, where research institutes must secure external projects to operate, it is nearly impossible for researchers to devote decades to a single field. Many researchers are forced to change their research topics every three to four years-or, in the worst cases, every one to two years-regardless of their area of expertise. The cycle is becoming shorter, much like the ever-changing trends in fashion.

In "Forbidden Dream," King Sejong values people over results. He leads a risky plan to rescue Jang Yeong-sil, who is being taken to Ming China. Jang Yeong-sil, in turn, is always prepared to risk his life for Sejong. From early on, he recognizes Sejong’s grand vision and willingly becomes his right-hand man.

Director Hur Jin-ho described the film as "a story about a leader and a scientist who share the same dream," adding, "What resonated with me most was how they prioritized mutual trust over personal ambition." He continued, "I believe this is a virtue our society needs."

If we, like Sejong, focus on nurturing researchers, even failed projects will leave behind valuable people. As more experts accumulate years of experience in their respective fields, Korean science and technology can make real progress. However, there is one prerequisite: policies must be established to allow these individuals to conduct long-term research without constraints.

Director Hur Jin-ho suggests empathy as the key. He highlights the emotional bond that forms as Sejong and Jang Yeong-sil share a sense of purpose and mutual understanding. This goes beyond the relationship between ruler and subject; it is essential for strengthening the sense of community among the people. After all, this is the fastest path to the popularization of science and technology.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.