Kisaeng (also spelled gisaeng); sometimes called ginyeo; were female official prostitutes or entertainers. Kisaeng are artists who work to entertain others; such as the yangban aristocracy and kings.

First appearing in the Goryeo Dynasty; kisaeng were legally entertainers of the government; required to perform various functions for the state. Many were employed at court; but they were also spread throughout the country. They were carefully trained; and frequently accomplished in the fine arts; poetry; and prose; although their talents were often ignored due to their inferior social status.

Women of the kisaeng class performed various roles; although they were all of the same low status in the eyes of yangban society. Aside from entertainment; these roles included medical care and needlework. In some cases; such as at army bases; kisaeng were expected to fill several such roles.

Kisaeng; both historic and fictional; play an important role in Korean conceptions of the traditional culture of the Joseon Dynasty. Some of Korea's oldest and most popular stories; such as the tale of Chunhyang; feature kisaeng as heroines. Although the names of most real kisaeng have been forgotten; a few are remembered for an outstanding attribute; such as talent or loyalty. The most famous of these is the 16th-century kisaeng Hwang Jin-i.