Crown Prince Sado

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Letter written by Crown Prince Sado to his father-in-law Hong Bong-han.

Crown Prince Sado (13 February 1735 – 12 July 1762) was a Korean prince and the second son of King Yeongjo of Joseon Dynasty. His life is one of the most tragic tales in Korean royal history, marked by a strained father-son relationship, mental illness, and a controversial death.

Early Life

Crown Prince Sado was born as Lee Sun, and from a young age, he was designated as the heir apparent to the throne. His early life was characterized by the rigorous expectations placed upon him by his father, King Yeongjo, who was determined to raise a competent and wise successor. Despite the high hopes, Sado faced immense pressure and developed signs of mental distress early on.

Relationship with King Yeongjo

The relationship between Sado and King Yeongjo was complex and fraught with tension. King Yeongjo's strict and often harsh approach to Sado's education and behavior exacerbated the prince's psychological issues. Reports suggest that Sado experienced severe anxiety and fear towards his father, which played a significant role in the deterioration of his mental health.

Mental Illness

Crown Prince Sado's mental health issues became more pronounced as he grew older. He exhibited erratic behavior, including sudden outbursts of anger, paranoia, and, according to historical records, violence. His condition was not well understood at the time, and the lack of appropriate medical treatment only worsened his state.

Death

The culmination of Sado's tragic life came with his death in 1762. After a series of violent incidents, King Yeongjo ordered that Sado be placed in a wooden rice chest and left to die. This method of execution was chosen to avoid the shedding of royal blood, which was considered taboo. Sado died after eight days, a victim of his father's decree and his untreated mental illness. His death remains one of the most controversial and debated events in Korean history.

Legacy

Crown Prince Sado's life and death have had a lasting impact on Korean culture and history. He is often portrayed as a tragic figure, caught between the expectations of royalty and the struggles with mental illness. His story has been the subject of numerous books, plays, and films, reflecting the enduring fascination and sympathy for his plight.