Political Power Groups of Kory ŏ Dynasty after the Period of Yüan China’s Intervention
Journal Title: International Journal of Korean History - Year 2002, Vol 3, Issue 1
Abstract
In 1356, King Kongmin of Koryŏ carried out his “anti‐Yüan reforms” that finally ended a century of Mongol interference. This reform came as a result of several factors such as the king’s accurate assessment of political situation in China, his promotion of talented men, and his resoluteness. After the reform, Kongmin personally would control Koryŏ’s state affairs. Kongmin, who came to the throne at the age of twenty‐two, attempted four great reforms during his reign, and in the process, the king would promote or demote groups of officials for his own political end. King Kongmin’s reign was the time of complex and shifting political situations, but it also provided great opportunities for many to rise quickly in the officialdom. Some of these new officials formed political factions to further their own interest and then dominated the late Koryŏ polity. It was the united force of the followers of Yi Sŏnggye and the new scholar officials that eventually destroyed Koryŏ and established the new Chosŏn dynasty. This article will examine the formation, background, and activities of the political groups in late Koryŏ and attempt to relate them to major historical events such as the fall of Koryŏ and establishment of Chosŏn.
Authors and Affiliations
Hyoung-woo Lee
Keywords
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