The first female regent of the Joseon dynasty, Queen Jeonghui (1418-1483) governed skillfully, maintaining stability and harmony during her tenure.
Strengthening her family’s position
Jeonghui’s father served as the first state councilor under King Sejong, and her family had a long history of producing influential courtiers. From a young age, Jeonghui displayed a bold and assertive personality. In 1428, she married Prince Suyang, the second son of King Sejong, and was granted the title of Her Royal Highness of Nangnang. The couple had three children.
Prince Suyang eventually plotted to overthrow his young nephew, King Danjong. Although he hesitated at first due to his advisors' warnings, Jeonghui encouraged him to proceed and helped him don his armor. The coup succeeded, and Prince Suyang ascended the throne as King Sejo, with Jeonghui becoming queen consort.
Jeonghui first became involved in state affairs during her husband's illness. Recognizing her intelligence and sharp judgment, King Sejo expressed confidence that she could manage the kingdom after his death.
Following King Sejo’s passing in 1468, their son, King Yejong, ascended the throne. However, his reign was brief, and Jeonghui had to appoint a new heir. She chose the second son of her deceased eldest son, who became King Seongjong.
Ruling behind the bamboo screen
Since the young King Seongjong was still a child, Jeonghui assumed the regency, "ruling from behind the bamboo screen" from 1469. This practice adhered to Confucian principles of gender segregation, which prohibited face-to-face interactions between the queen and male courtiers. Initially, Jeonghui declined the role, as she wasn't literate in classical Chinese, and suggested her daughter-in-law, Queen Insu, instead. However, the courtiers insisted, and she ultimately accepted.
Jeonghui had the final say all matters of state, including land ownership, personnel appointments, border defense, and construction projects. She was likely assisted by Queen Insu in making major decisions.
During her regency, the Grand Code for State Administration was enacted. Her policies, such as decreasing government surveillance and abolishing identification tags (hopae), appeased the public. Demonstrating frugality, she downsized the Office of Royal Estate.
Jeonghui had a strong attachment to Buddhism—contrary to the prevailing Confucian policies of the time—she persistently tried to import Buddhist scriptures despite opposition from the court.
Jeonghui was renowned for her political acumen and ability to navigate complex power dynamics. By collaborating with senior ministers, she effectively implemented her policies, stabilizing both the throne and the dynasty. Her flexibility ensured a prosperous and harmonious regency, and she protected the young monarch from the influence of powerful courtiers.
In 1476, a text criticizing her regency was displayed on the streets of the capital. Jeonghui stepped down a year later.
Queen Jeonghui died during the 14th year of King Seongjong’s reign, at the age of 66.
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Further reading
Duncan John, “The Naehun and the politics of Gender”, in: Kim-Renaud Young-Key, Creative Women of Korea The Fifteenth Through the Twentieth Centuries
Pae Yong-Yi, Women in Korean History
Park Si Nae, “Re-reading Queen Sohye's Naehun”
