Yu Chagwang

Yu Chagwang (, 1439 – June 15, 1512) was a Korean Joseon Dynasty politician, soldier and writer. Born as the son of a yangban father and a concubine, he was one of the few secondary sons who served in high government offices during the Joseon dynasty. His courtesy name was Uhu . His prime political rival was Kim Chong-jik.

Life In 1439, Yu Chagwang was born as the secondary son of Yu Kyu, of the Yeonggwang Yu clan, and his concubine, Lady Ch'oe. Yu first served as a kapsa or armoured soldier, who guarded Geonchunmun Gate. When Yi Si-ae's Rebellion broke out, he volunteered to serve the government forces in suppressing the rebels. He was quickly promoted to the position of a section chief in the Ministry of War by King Sejo. In 1468, he took the munkwa exam and placed first. In 1506, he once again became a merit subject when Jungjong obtained the throne, becoming the only secondary son in the history of Joseon to become a merit subject twice.

Popular culture Portrayed by Song Young-chang in the 2015 South Korean film The Treacherous Portrayed by Ryu Tae-ho in the 2017 MBC TV series The Rebel. Portrayed by Yoo Seung-bong in the 2017 KBS2 TV series Queen for Seven Days.