Myeongjong was the third son of King Injong , and king of the Korean kingdom of Goryeo (1170 - 1197).
Although it was intended for Injong's 2nd son* to succeed his father, he was assassinated because Jung Jungbu feared he may become a threat to him in the future. King Myeongjong was a weak king and was merely on the throne to show the general populace they still had a king although the true rulers were the military leaders. He lived to see constant bloodshed as well as the deaths of the rebels Jung Junbu, Lee Euibang as well as Lee Euimin (not related to Lee Euibang) but also the hero, Kuong Daesoon (Myeongjong hated and mistrusted him because of his popularity).
After 27 years on the throne, he was sent into exile by the current military ruler of the time, Che Chonghon and there afterwards the fifth son of King Injong, Sinjong was placed on the throne.
- It was said that when Injong was choosing an heir he preferred his 2nd son for his keen in-sight and wisdom, however his older brother came to power, and banished him out of jeolousy.
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