Harthacnut vs Yeonsangun of Joseon

Harthacnut became king of England after the death of his half-brother Harold Harefoot. He arrived from Denmark with a fleet and was accepted by the English nobility.

Harthacnut imposed a heavy tax (heregeld) to pay for his fleet. This led to a revolt in Worcester, where two of his tax collectors were killed. Harthacnut burned the city in retaliation.

Harthacnut invited his half-brother Edward (later Edward the Confessor) to return from Normandy and made him his heir. This ensured a peaceful succession after Harthacnut's death.

Harthacnut died at Lambeth on June 8, 1042, while drinking at a wedding feast. His death ended Danish rule in England and led to the restoration of the Anglo-Saxon line under Edward the Confessor.

Yeonsangun ordered the execution of several Sarim scholars who criticized his rule and his mother's status. This purge marked the beginning of his tyrannical reign and intensified factional conflict.

Yeonsangun launched a second, more brutal purge, executing hundreds of officials and scholars. He targeted those involved in his mother's death and any perceived opposition, creating a climate of terror.

Yeonsangun abolished the Office of Censorship (Saganwon) and the Office of the Inspector General (Saheonbu), removing checks on royal power. This allowed him to rule without restraint.

Yeonsangun was overthrown in a coup led by court officials and military commanders. He was deposed and exiled to Ganghwa Island, ending his tyrannical reign. His half-brother Jungjong was installed as king.