Joseon Literati Purges (1460s)

Timeline

1. 1460Hanseong · Joseon dynastyThe court investigated and severely punished those spreading rumors of King Danjong's restoration, showing continued vigilance against potential literati opposition and consolidating the political legitimacy of Sejo's usurpation.
2. 1461–1468Various parts of Joseon · Joseon dynastyAfter the 1456 'Six Living Ministers,' more scholars chose reclusion and refused to serve in protest against Sejo's regime; their narratives of loyalty circulated locally, forming a collective memory opposing the official historical view.
3. 1465–1468Hanseong Historiography Office · Joseon dynastyThe merit faction controlled annals compilation and personnel at the Historiography Office, banning public discussion of Danjong's restoration and the deeds of the Six Ministers, making the 1460s a key phase of systematic marginalization of the literati.