Reforms of Gwangjong

King Gwangjong strengthened royal power over the lords and merit subjects with the Slave Review Act, the civil service examination and imperial titles.

After Taejo’s death, succession struggles among in-laws and lords (Wang Gyu’s revolt, 945) shook the throne under Hyejong and Jeongjong. Gwangjong bided his time, then in 956 undermined the lords’ economic and military base with the Slave Review Act and in 958 began recruiting officials by examination.

In 960 he fixed official robes in purple, crimson, scarlet and green by rank. He styled himself emperor, used his own era names Gwangdeok and Junpung, and called Gaegyeong the Imperial Capital and Pyongyang the Western Capital. Merit subjects and lords who resisted were purged. He appointed the monk Gyunyeo to Gwibeopsa and created the offices of national and royal preceptor.