Chŏng Chung-bu

Chŏng Chungbu (; 1106 – October 18, 1179) was a medieval Korean soldier and military dictator during the Goryeo period (918–1392). He was a career soldier, qualified on military part of civil service examination. He was most noted for leading a coup d'état in 1170 (Revolt of military officers), dethroning the king and beginning of 100-year military reign in Korea.

Early career Chŏng Chungbu was from Haeju Chŏng clan. The Haeju Chŏng clan was the clan of Chŏng Chŏngsuk , a military official who helped suppress the Myoch'ŏng rebellion and was able to attain civilian offices as a military official. He was said to be over seven feet tall with a dignified, warrior-like appearance. Initially, he was enlisted in the local military registry and sent to the capital of Kaegyŏng, where Minister Ch'oe Hongjae, impressed by his presence, selected him to serve in the Royal Crane Guard (Konghakgun) of the Kŭmgun (Royal Palace Guard). On August 30, 1170, the king's entourage moved from Yŏnbokjŏng to Hŭngwangsa Temple and then Pohyŏnwŏn. The three military officers began the revolt killing the accompanying civil officials and eunuchs.

By 1175, Chŏng had reached the retirement age of 70, but declined to step down after receiving an honorary ceremonial staff (kwejang) and continued to oversee state affairs from the Council of Generals .

Thus, the five-year reign of Chŏng Chungbu came to an end.

Popular culture Portrayed by Kim Heung-ki in the 2003–2004 KBS TV series Age of Warriors.