650 t h e a n n a l s o f k i n g t’a e j o
Looking toward Japan
In the east beyond the sea,
There live wicked people called Japanese.
Having never been exposed to the influence of sages,
They are always brutal and cunning.
Invading and plundering the neighboring countries,
They live in the mountains along the sea.
I wish the suzerain state would send its army to suppress them
And return in triumph after bringing them to justice.On Kŭmgang Mountain
Ten million mountain peaks standing in the snow
Appear as jade lotus when the clouds are cleared over the sea.
The awesome lights over the mountain peaks create the vast blue ocean,
And they look as if they have gathered all the clean energy and vibrant
h a r mony.
The steep hills and mountains look down narrow trails,
And deep valleys hide the traces of Daoist immortals.
While traveling east, I wish to climb the highest peak
And wash my heart clean, looking down at the great ocean.On the Geomancy of the New Capital
After a thousand years, the sea kingdom [Chosŏn] is fortunate to have
A benevolent emperor, and our king tries to serve him with all his
heart.
The king was granted a new country name, with an order to raise his
people.
So he established the nation’s capital in Hansŏng and built royal
palaces.
In the south, a river is unwinding with rolling waves;
In the north, three mountains soar above the clouds.
What’s the use of talking about geomancy?
Everyone will enjoy peace evermore thanks to the grace of the
emperor.