Confucianism is a social and political philosophy which originated in China. It had taken root in Korea by at least the 4th century AD. For the next thousand years or so, Confucianism largely co-existed in harmony with Buddhism. However, during the Chosŏn period Confucianism became more important than Buddhism. Chosŏn rulers stressed the importance of carrying out Confucian rites and people were encouraged to behave according to the Confucian virtues of loyalty, sincerity, chastity and respect.

Weddings, funerals and the worship of ancestors are among the most important Confucian rituals. To the Confucian, peace and prosperity of the state was guaranteed by carrying out these rituals in a proper manner. An example of this was the commissioning of portrait paintings for ancestral rituals.

It was also vital to educate the mind through concentration and study. This would help a person to live in a moral way and to always behave properly. A man had to honour his ancestors and respect his relatives. He should also manage his finances well and be careful not to spend too much money. A virtuous woman was hard working, loyal and sincere. She treated people with respect and kindness. Her job was to manage the household.