Royal Defense Command

The Royal Defense Command (Korean: 수어청; Hanja: 守禦廳; RR: Sueocheong; MR: Suŏch'ŏng) was established during the late period of the Joseon Dynasty in 1626 (the 4th year of King Injo's reign) for the defense of Namhansanseong. The Royal Defense Command defended the south of Hanseong through Namhanseong Fortress with 16,500 troops. The military camp system was established in 1656 (the 7th year of King Hyojong's reign) when the Royal Defense Command, which was responsible for the defense and management of the fortress, was introduced for the first time. The defense of Namhansanseong against external invasions from both the north and the south was not limited to the military forces around Gyeonggi Province, but also included the military forces of the local districts along the enemy's invasion routes, incorporating them into the Soyeong system to focus on the defense of the fortress. Royal Defense Command established its headquarters, Gyeongcheong (Capital Office), in Jinjangbang, the northern part of Hansungbu. The commander, Suosa (Defender), concurrently held the position of Hansungbuyun (Governor of Hansungbu). However, in 1795 (the 19th year of King Jeongjo's reign), King Jeongjo reorganized the organization of Suocheong. The Gyeongcheong was abolished, and the headquarters was moved to Namhansanseong, elevating the position of Gwangjubuyun (Governor of Gwangju) to Gwangjuyusu (Resident of Gwangju) and concurrently holding the position of Suosa.