chin’gol

Korean social system

Also known as: true bone

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June 24, 2026

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The chin'gol ("true bone") was a hereditary status within the kolp'um ("bone rank") system of Korea's Unified Silla dynasty (668–935 CE). This system ranked members of the ruling class, with various privileges and restrictions tied to each status. The kolp'um system originally distinguished the status of tribes within the Silla confederation. After unification, it became primarily for residents of the capital.1

There were eight classes in total: two gol ("bone") ranks and six dup'um ("head") ranks. The chin'gol and sŏnggol ("sacred bone") were of royal or formerly royal families. Initially, only the sŏnggol could ascend to the throne, but as this class diminished, the chin'gol inherited the prerogative. The chin'gol also held significant state positions and presided over important conferences. Those below the third dup'um rank were excluded from official positions.12

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kolp’um
(sŏnggol, or “sacred bone,” and chin’gol, or “true bone”) and six dup’ums (or “head ranks”). The two gols were from the royal and formerly royal families; the sixth dup’um through the fourth were from the general nobility, and the third down to the first from the commoners.
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(sŏnggol, or “sacred bone,” and chin’gol, or “true bone”) and six dup’ums (or “head ranks”). The two gols were from the royal and formerly royal families; the sixth dup’um through the fourth were from the general nobility, and the third down to the first from the commoners.
Read More