Sejong the Great

Sejong the Great was the fourth ruler of the Joseon dynasty of Korea and the inventor of Hangul, the native alphabet of the Korean language. Today, he is regarded as one of the greatest leaders in Korean history. Initially titled Grand Prince Chungnyeong, he was the third son of King Taejong and Queen Wongyeong. In 1418, Sejong replaced his eldest brother, Yi Je, as crown prince; a few months later, Taejong voluntarily abdicated the throne in his favor. Despite this, Sejong was a mere figurehead, while his father continued to hold the real power and govern the country until his death in 1422. Sejong reinforced Korean Confucian and Neo-Confucian policies, and enacted major legal amendments. He personally created and promulgated the Korean alphabet, encouraged advancements in science and technology, and introduced measures to stimulate economic growth. He also patronized literature, music, art, and medicine. He was known for his benevolence and concern for the welfare of his people. He died in 1450, after ruling for 32 years, and was buried at Yeongneung Mausoleum with his wife, Queen Soheon. He was succeeded by his son, Munjong. Sejong was posthumously honored with the title King Jangheon Yeongmun Yemu Inseong Myeonghyo the Great, and his temple name was Sejong. He is one of only two Korean kings to have the epithet “the Great”, along with Gwanggaeto the Great of Goguryeo. He is widely celebrated and respected in Korea, and his legacy lives on in the Korean language and culture.