King Hyeonjong of Joseon

King Hyeonjong's reign was dominated by intense factional conflict between the Westerners and Southerners, particularly over issues of royal succession and ritual. This strife weakened the monarchy and led to frequent purges of officials.

Hyeonjong continued the implementation of the Daedong Law, a tax reform that replaced various tribute payments with a single land tax. This reform aimed to reduce corruption and ease the burden on peasants, though it faced resistance from local elites.