King Yeonsangun of Joseon

Yeonsangun ordered the execution and exile of many scholar-officials from the Sarim faction, accusing them of criticizing his rule. This purge intensified factional conflict and established his reputation for tyranny.

Yeonsangun launched a second, more brutal purge, executing hundreds of officials and their families. He targeted those involved in his mother's death and anyone who opposed his excesses, further destabilizing the court.

Yeonsangun abolished the Office of Special Counselors (Hongmungwan) and other advisory bodies, centralizing power in his own hands. This act removed checks on royal authority and allowed his tyranny to go unchecked.

A group of officials and military leaders staged a coup, deposing Yeonsangun and exiling him to Ganghwa Island. He was the first Joseon king to be forcibly removed from power, and his half-brother Jungjong was installed as king.