Foreword    

The National Palace Museum of Korea is pleased to present a special exhibition in appreciation of all the patrons who gladly donated or entrusted their treasured family heirlooms to the museum. The artifacts of national heritage on display are related to Gongsin (meritorious subjects) of the Joseon Dynasty. Gongsin was a title that Joseon kings conferred on subjects who performed distinguished services that helped the country overcome a crisis and the royal family thrive. Honored subjects also received certificates, portraits, and material rewards from the king. This exhibition features documents related to such practices as well as portraits of Gongsin.    

* Donation : Making a gift of artifacts to the museum    
* Entrustment : Depositing artifacts with a museum for a certain period of time