A Study on the Music Activities of ‘Hanseong Kwonbeon’ Gisaeng through Mass Media

The purpose of this study is to examine the music activities of ‘Hanseong Kwonbeon(漢城券番)’ gisaeng(妓生) through mass media. Through previous studies on the Kwonbeon and gisaeng of the modern era, this study examine the history of Hanseong Kwonbeon and the role of gisaeng in inheriting traditional culture and forming popular culture through their activities in two fields: radio broadcasting at the Gyeongseong Broadcasting Station and SP Record. Hanseong Kwonbeon gisaengs were active not only on stage and in theaters but also through new mass media of the modern era such as broadcasting and records. The radio broadcasts of the Gyeongseong Broadcasting Station clearly confirmed the name of Hanseong Kwonbeon from 1926 to 1931, and the activities of about 40 gisaengs were revealed. Hanseong Kwonbeon gisaengs excelled in the genres of Japga and Gasas. In terms of inclusion in the SP Record, the activities of two gisaengs, Gil Jin-hong and Baek Mo-ran, were remarkable. Gil Jin-hong and Baek Mo-ran were active in both the Broadcasting Station and the Record, which is noteworthy. In the early 20th century, gisaengs were female artists who devoted themselves to various genres of music activities and were also undisputed entertainers who received the popularity of the public. Although many studies have been conducted on gisaengs, I hope that further research will be conducted from various perspectives, including their roles as female artists, entertainers, and as a subject of popular culture.