First Scholar of the Joseon Order

The First Scholar was the leader of the Joseon Order appointed to the post by an election from their peers. Traditionally the First Scholar was a highly educated individual of advanced age and with a strong notion for the value of academic pursuits. The authority of the First Scholar was second only to the Taewang within the kingdom and would regularly be called on by the Jade Emperor to discuss the Order's discoveries and current pursuits for the betterment of all.

Appointment

The First Scholar was elected by a direct vote of the members of the Joseon Order. Each member would receive a single strip of paper upon which they would write the name of their chosen representative and place it into a large ceremonial urn. After voting they would write their name into a log book alongside the date of their vote and a witness to their casting. Once every member had voted or a month had passed since the election had begun the votes would be counted in a gathering of all the membership and the new First Scholar would be chosen by majority. 
Traditionally a First Scholar would refuse the role unless they achieved at least a two-thirds majority of the votes though in several cases this was overlooked due to a sustained gridlock preventing a significant majority from being formed. There was however no legal obligation to refuse if only a simple majority was reached.

Duties

The First Scholar oversaw the administrative needs of the Joseon Order and was responsible for appointing counsellors responsible to assist in the administrative efforts as necessary. This meant that the size of the governing counsel would vary based on the needs of the First Scholar as well as the direction and focus of the research of the order as a whole.

Grounds for Removal/Dismissal

The Taewang alone had the right to dismiss a First Scholar but usually did so only at the behest of the membership of the Joseon Order. The often advanced age of those that held the position meant that few First Scholars kept the position for over a decade before their natural death meaning those who objected to them holding the position often felt able to wait it out.

Type

Academic, Professional

Form of Address

Wisdom

Length of Term

Life

Reports directly to

Taewang

Related Locations

• Imūgi

Related Organizations

• Joseon Order