[4] The Hall of Worthies originally functioned as a royal advisory body, but King Sejong restructured it and expanded its role to include academic research.

Early in King Sejong's reign, the Hall of Worthies served as a legislative system, but its role eventually grew to hold discussions regarding Joseon's national policy.

[citation needed] However, a similar organization, the Hongmungwan, Office of Special Advisors, continued much of the same work, though without enjoying the same prestige or output it had during the earlier period.

During his 14th year in power, King Sejong instructed his scholars at the Hall of Worthies to compile outstanding examples of the fundamental principles in human relationships (filial piety, loyalty to the state, and wifely devotion) from both Korean and Chinese history.

The Ming envoys were led by Ni Qian, who befriended Hall of Worthies scholars Chŏng Inji, Seong Sammun, and Shin Sukju.