Gyeongdeok of Silla

Gyeongdeok (景德; 723~724–765) was the 35th ruler of Silla and son of King Seongdeok (reigned 702–737). He succeeded his elder brother, King Hyoseong, the 34th ruler of Silla. His reign is considered a golden age in Unified Silla's history, particularly for Buddhist art and architecture. He is noted as an avid patron of Buddhism and an influential political and religious individual. King Gyeongdeok also made attempts to centralize the country through reorganizing government and standardizing naming practices. With his mother as regent, Gyeongdeok's son, King Hyegong, succeeded him after his death.

Projects under reign King Gyeongdeok is best known for the multiple architectural projects that began under his reign. The most notable of these is the Divine Bell of King Seongdeok, which he commissioned and named for his father. The construction began in 742 and finished during the reign of King Hyoseong. King Gyeongdeok also constructed a Jangsaenpyo at Borimsa to express his gratitude for the support of Master Wanpyo in his administrative endeavors.

It is also likely that King Gyeongdeok constructed one of the lotus ponds in the southwest region of Wolseong Castle, which spans approximately forty meters from east to west and fifty meters from north to south.

Government reform King Gyeongdeok attempted further centralization of Korea through organization of government and post naming conventions.

Family

Grandfather Sinmun of Silla (; 642–692) Grandmother: Queen Sinmok of the Kim clan (신목왕후 김씨; 655–700) Father: Seongdeok of Silla (reigned 702–737) (; 691–737) Mother: Queen Sodeok of the Kim clan (700–724) Wife: Queen Sammo of the Kim clan (; 723–?); daughter of Kim Sun–jeong (; 690–?) Queen Gyeongsu of the Kim clan (; 725–?); daughter of Kim Ui-chung (김의충; 695–?) Daughter: Lady Kim (김씨; 750–?) Son: Hyegong of Silla (758–780); was the 36th ruler of the Korean kingdom of Silla. Lady Kim (김씨; 727–?); daughter Kim Sun–jeong (; 690–?)