Abul Khair Khan vs King Sunjo of Joseon

Abul Khair Khan led Kazakh forces in a series of campaigns against the Dzungar Khanate, which was expanding into Kazakh territories. He achieved several victories, including the recapture of key territories. These campaigns helped defend the Kazakh steppe from Dzungar conquest.

Abul Khair Khan, leader of the Junior Juz, swore allegiance to the Russian Empire to gain protection against the Dzungar Khanate and the Kalmyks. This alliance was formalized through a treaty, making the Junior Juz a Russian protectorate and beginning Russian expansion into the Kazakh steppe.

Abul Khair Khan engaged in a power struggle with the Khan of the Middle Juz, challenging his authority. This internal conflict weakened the Kazakh Khanate and led to further Russian interference in Kazakh affairs. The dispute was eventually mediated by Russian officials.

Sunjo ascended the throne as a child, and the Andong Kim clan dominated the court through the regency of Queen Dowager Jeongsun. This period saw corruption and factional infighting, weakening the monarchy and central authority.

King Sunjo's reign saw the Sinyu Persecution, a large-scale crackdown on Korean Catholics. Hundreds of believers were executed, including the scholar Hwang Sayeong, who wrote a letter calling for foreign intervention. This persecution strengthened anti-Western sentiment.

A major peasant rebellion led by Hong Gyeong-rae broke out in Pyeongan Province, fueled by heavy taxation and corruption. The rebellion was suppressed after several months, but it exposed the deep social and economic problems in Joseon.