Bodawpaya vs Cheoljong of Joseon

Bodawpaya launched a massive invasion of Siam with nine armies totaling over 140,000 men. The campaign aimed to conquer the newly established Rattanakosin kingdom. However, the invasion was repelled by Siamese forces under King Rama I, marking a major defeat.

Bodawpaya's forces conquered the kingdom of Arakan (Rakhine) on the western coast of Burma. The annexation brought the region under Konbaung control and led to the flight of many Arakanese refugees into British India, creating tensions with the British East India Company.

Bodawpaya began construction of the Mingun Pahtodawgyi, a massive unfinished stupa near Mandalay. The project was abandoned after a prophecy that its completion would bring disaster. The structure remains the largest pile of bricks in the world.

Bodawpaya commissioned the casting of the Mingun Bell, the largest functioning bell in the world at the time. Weighing over 90 tons, it was intended for a massive pagoda at Mingun. The bell remains a major historical artifact and tourist attraction.

Cheoljong, a distant royal relative living in poverty on Ganghwa Island, was chosen as king by the Andong Kim clan. He was ill-prepared for rule and remained a figurehead, with the clan controlling all state affairs.

Under Cheoljong, the Andong Kim clan monopolized power, filling key positions with their members. Corruption and factionalism intensified, leading to administrative paralysis. The king had no real authority and was largely ignored.

The Pungyang Jo clan, led by Queen Sinjeong, began to challenge the Andong Kim clan's dominance. This factional struggle further destabilized the court. Cheoljong remained a passive observer as the two clans vied for control.

King Cheoljong died at age 32, likely from illness. He left no heir, ending the line of King Yeongjo. His death led to the selection of Gojong as the next king, with the Pungyang Jo clan gaining power and eventually leading to the regency of Heungseon Daewongun.