Gongmin 1330 – 1374

Biography

Gongmin was born on May 31, 1330, in Kaesong, where he would spend his life in service to the Goryeo Kingdom. As the thirty-first king of Goryeo, he carried the weight of his realm during a significant period of Korean history. His reign reflected the responsibilities and challenges faced by the monarchy during this era, and he left an enduring mark on the dynasty that bore his name.

Though details of his life remain sparse in historical record, Gongmin’s legacy was preserved through his interment at the Royal Tombs of the Goryeo Dynasty, a final resting place befitting his royal station. He passed away on November 4, 1374, in his native Kaesong, concluding a life devoted to his kingdom. The manner and circumstances of his death were not formally recorded, leaving future generations to remember him primarily through his role as one of Goryeo’s crowned rulers.

Gongmin’s life spanned forty-four years during a transformative time in Korean history. His memory endures as part of the rich lineage of Goryeo kings, and his tomb stands as a testament to the dynasty he served. Though the specifics of his personal achievements may have faded with time, his place in the succession of Korean royal history remains secure.