Kisaeng, also called ginyeo, were women from outcast or slave families who were trained to be courtesans, providing artistic entertainment and conversation to men of upper class. First appearing in Goryeo, kisaeng were the government's legal entertainers, required to perform various functions for the state.

What does the name Kisaeng mean?

: a Korean professional singing and dancing girl.

What was a gisaeng in Korea?

Gisaeng (기생;妓生), or ginyo (기녀;妓女), are women from a lower class who were trained to become professional artists. Peasants considered the occupation to be indelicate because gisaeng provided entertainment at parties or gatherings involving alcohol to upperclassmen.