Sinjong of Goryeo

Sinjong of Goryeo, born Wang T'ak on August eleventh, one thousand one hundred forty-four, ascended to the throne as the twentieth monarch of the Goryeo dynasty in the year one thousand one hundred ninety-seven. He was the fifth son of King Injong and took over the reign following the exile of his brother, King Myeongjong, orchestrated by the powerful Ch'oe Ch'ung-hŏn.

Despite his wisdom, Sinjong's rule was characterized by a lack of true authority, as the real power lay with Ch'oe Ch'ung-hŏn, marking the onset of military dominance by the Choe family. His reign was tumultuous, plagued by civil unrest and numerous uprisings across regions such as Myeongju, Jinju, Geumju, Hapcheon, Gyeongju, and Gwangju.

During his time on the throne, Sinjong also faced internal conflicts within the Choe family, which contributed to the instability of his reign. As his health deteriorated, he ultimately abdicated in favor of his son, King Huijong, succumbing to the pressures imposed by Ch'oe Ch'ung-hŏn.