[Related Article / The Korea Economic Daily] What Even King Sejong Could Not Prepare For: Two Things to Do While It Is Still ‘Not Yet’ [SEO & LEE’s Law and Business]

If asked to name the greatest ruler in Korean history, many would choose King Sejong. Yet the aftermath of his reign was far from what he envisioned. When his son, King Munjong, died just two years after ascending the throne, Grand Prince Suyang seized the crown from his young nephew. Kim Jong-seo, entrusted with protecting the child king, was murdered. Shin Suk-ju, once so favored by Sejong that the king personally covered him with his royal robe, sided with Suyang. Seong Sam-mun, who remained loyal, ultimately paid with his life.

Even the Hall of Worthies, painstakingly built by Sejong, was abolished, and King Danjong was eventually killed. One of Korea’s most brilliant rulers could not design a future beyond his own lifetime. Selecting the right people to carry on a vision is not enough. Without a system capable of withstanding betrayal, failure, or changing circumstances, even the noblest ambitions may end with their founder.

When judgment ceases, so do wealth and enterprise