The Joseon Dynasty was established from 1392 to 1910 AD. At the end of the Goryeo Dynasty, Buddhism began to lose political influence. Instead, Confucianism became the official philosophy of the dynasty. Following this idea, Yangban's education was valued more than commoner's education. Education also focused on gaining rank and personal cultivation. The humanities was valued while vocational education was belittled. This idea has been credited with establishing a system of ethics for the entire country and contributing to Korea's philosophy of education as a whole.
Higher education institutions included Sungkyunkwan (Korean: 성균관) in Seoul, which had the role of a university. Secondary education institutions included Sahak (사학; 四學) in the cities and Hyanggyo in the rural areas. Private schools included Shuyuan and the primary education institution Seodang. However, these institutions were independent instead of being systematic. Seodang was seen as a preparation for Sahak or Hyanggyo.
The educational curriculum was managed by the Ministry of Rites from the Six Ministries of Joseon. Educational policies such as Gyeongguk daejeon (경국대전; 經國大典) were implemented for the management and supervision of the educational institutions. Government subsidies such as cultivated land, rice, and fish were given, and priviligies such as tax exemption were granted. During the reign of Taejo of Joseon (r. 1392–98 AD), Hyanggyo was especially supported. In 1398, the Goryeo-era Sungkyunkwan institute was renovated for Confucianism education. The student population was expanded from 100 to 200. Organized student events were held, and students' opinions were encouraged. In 1411, four institutions named Sahak (사학,; 四學) were established, which differed from the Goryeo-era Sahak. Annually, 20 students from each school in Sahak were tested for a governmental position; this system was called Seungbo (승보; 陞補). In 1477, a 30-month tenure was implemented for Sahak. During the reign of Hyojong of Joseon (1649 - 59 AD), policies created by scholars with Song Jun-gil as the head were accepted as Sahak policies. On 1335 AD, schools were inspected under the government. Each region was mandated a school. On 1550 AD, the basis for Seowon was created. However, Seowons began to have negative influences on education and the government closed down all but 47 Seowons by 1868.
There was a school for the royal family called Joghak (종학; 宗學). It was established on 1429 AD.