Book VI 423“1. It is the king’s virtue to listen to words of advice and accept the remon-
strance of his subjects, and it is the duty of his subjects that they prevent
troubles from happening by offering honest advice to the king. The officials
who fail to discharge their duty because of their self- interest are the ones
who deceive the king, only receiving the favors and stipend from him.
Though we lack talent and ability, we are specially favored to serve as cen-
sors in your government. How can we then keep silent and pretend to ignore
your request, which was intended to find the right ways to rule the state
from the beginning of your reign?
“In ancient times, Jia Yi^27 of the Han dynasty wailed over wrongful mea-
sures, and his remonstrance made Emperor Wen’s reign prosperous, while
the outspokenness of Wei Zheng of the Tang dynasty contributed to the suc-
cess of the “Reign of Zhenguan.”^28 If Your Majesty accepts our proposals
and puts all of them into practice, it will be extremely fortunate for the
people in the days to come.”
The king ordered Kim Sahaeng, director of the Directorate of Palace
Attendants, to build the Inner Royal Stable (Naegu) in the section of
Holchŏkbang.^29
3rd Day (Kyŏngo)
Hwang Hŭisŏk, Lord of P’yŏnghae and assistant grand councilor of the
Security Council, died. He was a native of P’yŏnghae. Hŭisŏk led the troops
under Taejo’s command even before he ascended the throne and was staying
at his private home, out of public view. His contributions qualified him to be
named a dynasty- founding merit subject. After he fell ill, the king sent him
a royal physician to treat and remain with him until he recovered. Then the
king continued to dispatch runners to inquire after his condition. After
Hŭisŏk died, the king mourned his passing so deeply that he ordered the- Jia Yi (200–169 b c): a poet and statesman of the Han. Extremely talented in literature,
he was recommended to Emperor Wen and rose to a high position at a young age. However, he
made many enemies at court because of his ideas of reform and outspokenness and suffered
persecution until he committed suicide at the age of thirty- one. - It refers to the reign of Emperor Taizong of the Tang dynasty, which was considered a
golden age of Chinese history and required study for future rulers. - Location unknown.