Jin Shengtan was a prominent literary theorist and critic during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties in China, whose influence reached far beyond his homeland. In the mid-18th century, his annotated editions of Water Margin (Shuihu zhuan) and Romance of the Western Chamber (Xixiang ji) were introduced to Korea, where they quickly gained widespread acclaim. At that time, Korea lacked a tradition of novel commentary, but by the early 19th century, several notable literary critics emerged, including figures such as the Master of Stone Spring (Thạch Tuyền chủ nhân), Park Tae-seok (Phác Thái Tích), and Teacher of Suisan (Thủy Sơn tiên sinh). These scholars were profoundly influenced by Jin Shengtan’s distinctive style, techniques, and ideas, laying the groundwork for the development of literary criticism in Korea. In Japan, Jin Shengtan’s annotated editions of Water Margin and Romance of the Western Chamber similarly inspired major literary figures, such as Ryotei Tanehiko (Lương Điền Thuế Nham), Kaisen Kigen (Giai Xuyên Kỳ Viên), and Seiden Danso (Thanh Điền Đam Tẩu), who became key contributors to the country’s literary discourse. This paper will outline the reception of Jin Shengtan’s thought in Vietnam, exploring the timeline of its introduction, the processes of translation and compilation, and the academic study of his works. The researchers aim to draw conclusions on how his literary ideas were assimilated within the Vietnamese context. In doing so, this study will examine how the incorporation of global literary excellence into Vietnam's national tradition enriched and diversified its own literary landscape, showcasing the enduring influence of Jin Shengtan's critical thought.

 

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