Yi Chagyŏm
Yi Chagyŏm | |
|---|---|
| Died | 19 January 1127 |
| Occupation(s) | Politician Soldier Poet (additional) |
| Years active | ?–1127 |
| Era | Yejong of Goryeo Injong of Goryeo |
| Spouse(s) | Lady, of the Haeju Choe clan (m. before 1094) |
| Children | 6 sons and 4 daughters |
| Parents |
|
| Relatives | Inju Yi clan |
| Korean name | |
| Hangul | 이자겸 |
| Hanja | 李資謙 |
| Revised Romanization | Yi Jagyeom |
| McCune–Reischauer | Yi Chagyŏm |
Yi Chagyŏm (died on 19 January 1127) was a politician, soldier, regent, and poet in twelfth-century Goryeo. Born into a noble family, Yi rose to power through strategic marriages and political maneuvering, becoming a pivotal figure in the royal court. His career was marked by ambitious political schemes and alliances, including marriages of his daughters to kings, which further consolidated his authority. Goryeosa, where notable traitors throughout Goryeo history are cataloged, dedicates a biography to Yi's service and corruption in the royal court.
At the height of his power, Yi Cha-gyŏm wielded significant influence and raised private armies. His corruption and arrogance strained relations with the king, and climaxed in disturbances which saw the main royal palace building set ablaze, though Yi emerged victorious against the king with the help of the powerful military general, Ch'ŏk Chun-gyŏng. Yet, Yi's repeated attempts to poison the king widened the rift with Ch'ŏk, eventually resulting in Ch'ŏk's betrayal and Yi's capture and exile. Yi died in exile in Yeonggwang.