Michael III vs Yeonsangun of Joseon

Michael III became Byzantine emperor at age two after the death of his father Theophilos. His mother Theodora served as regent. His reign saw the final restoration of icon veneration and a cultural revival.

Under the regency of Theodora, the Council of Constantinople in 843 formally restored the veneration of icons, ending the second iconoclast period. This event is celebrated as the 'Triumph of Orthodoxy' in the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Michael III sponsored the mission of Saints Cyril and Methodius to the Slavs. They created the Glagolitic alphabet and translated the Bible into Old Church Slavonic, spreading Christianity and literacy among the Slavic peoples.

Michael III was assassinated in his bedchamber by his co-emperor Basil I, who then became sole emperor. Michael's reign ended the Macedonian dynasty's rise. His death marked the beginning of the Macedonian Renaissance.

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.