King Sunjo, the 23rd monarch of the Joseon Dynasty, ruled from 1800 to 1834. Born as Prince Yi Gong, he ascended the throne at the young age of 10 following the death of his father, King Jeongjo. In 1802, at the age of 13, Sunjo married Lady Kim, who posthumously became known as Queen Sunwon. She was the daughter of Kim Jo-sun, a prominent figure in the Andong Kim clan. Due to his youth, Queen Dowager Jeongsun, the second queen of King Yeongjo, initially ruled as queen regent. Her influence was significant during the early part of Sunjo's reign, impacting the treatment and status of Lady Hyegyeong, Sunjo's grandmother. Despite Sunjo's later efforts, he could not fully restore Lady Hyegyeong's status, which had been complicated by the controversial death of her husband, Crown Prince Sado, during King Yeongjo's reign.

King Sunjo's reign witnessed political instability and corruption, particularly in government personnel administration and the state examination system. This turmoil contributed to societal disorder and several uprisings, including the significant revolt led by Hong Gyeong-nae in 1811–1812. During Sunjo's reign, the Ogajaktongbeop, a census registration system grouping five households as one unit, was implemented, and there was increased oppression against Roman Catholicism. King Sunjo's reign, spanning 35 years, ended with his death in 1834 at the age of 44.