King Sukjong and Factional Power Shifts

King Sukjong, the nineteenth monarch of Joseon, strengthened royal authority by maneuvering between rival Namin and Seoin court factions through dramatic political turnarounds (Hwanguk). His reign saw major economic developments, including the widespread adoption of Sangpyeong Tongbo copper coinage, expansion of commercial trade, and broader implementation of the Daedong Law. In 1712, Sukjong negotiated border demarcations with the Qing Dynasty, establishing the Baekdusan Stele along the Yalu and Tumen rivers to secure national boundary recognition.

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