Sunjo of Joseon

After Jeongjo's death, the Andong Kim clan, led by Queen Sunwon's family, seized power. They purged reformist officials and controlled the young King Sunjo. This marked the beginning of in-law family rule (sedo politics) that lasted for decades.

Sunjo's government launched a severe persecution of Catholics, executing hundreds of converts and foreign missionaries. This was part of a broader crackdown on Western ideas. The persecution strengthened Joseon's isolationist policy.

A peasant rebellion led by Hong Gyeong-rae broke out in Pyeongan Province, protesting heavy taxes and corruption. The rebellion lasted several months and was suppressed by the government. It exposed the weaknesses of the Joseon administration under in-law rule.