Astronomer and practical-learning scholar under Yeongjo and Jeongjo; Minister of Personnel; pen name Haksan; father of Seo Yu-gu
| Life | 1736 ~ 1799 |
| Era | 조선 후기 |
| Clan | 대구 서씨 |
Seo Ho-su (1736-1799) was a late-Joseon astronomer and practical-learning scholar of the Daegu Seo clan. Pen name Haksan, he was a son of Seo Myeong-eung, adopted by his uncle Seo Myeong-ik, and the natural father of Seo Yu-gu, author of the Imwon gyeongje ji. Trusted by Jeongjo, he served as a royal confidant until his death and took part in founding the Gyujanggak.
Soon after Jeongjo's accession in 1776 he was appointed vice envoy to Qing China. After passing the civil examination he served as Jeongeon, Jipyeong, Susan, royal secretary, Magistrate of Suwon, governor of Jeolla, Remonstrator-General and Chief Royal Secretary, then Vice Minister of Personnel, Vice Director of the Hongmungwan, Principal of the Seonggyungwan, governor of Hamgyeong, Gyujanggak director, and minister in the ministries of Justice, Rites, Personnel, Military Affairs, Works and Taxation.
His works include the Haedong nongseo, Sinbeop jungseonggi and Sinbeop nujutongui, and he co-wrote the Gukjo yeoksang-go with Kim Yeong and Seong Ju-deok. Skilled in astronomy and the calendar, he is introduced as the top astronomer of the Yeongjo-Jeongjo era. His sons include Seo Yu-bon, Seo Yu-gu, Seo Yu-rak and Seo Yu-bi, and his younger brother was Seo Hyeong-su.
Trusted by Jeongjo, he took part in establishing the Gyujanggak and in 1776 went to Qing China as vice envoy.
He left astronomy and calendar works such as the Sinbeop jungseonggi, Sinbeop nujutongui and Gukjo yeoksang-go, and the Haedong nongseo.
The location of his tomb was not confirmed here.
Sons include Seo Yu-bon, Seo Yu-gu, Seo Yu-rak and Seo Yu-bi.