The 16 Wives of Prince Uichin: A Disgrace to Modernity

Prince Uichin, Yi Kang (李堈, 1877–1955), was well known for his numerous romantic affairs. Even in the United States, he was involved in scandals with women, which led to him being assaulted by an American young man. He had multiple wives in addition to his official spouse. Although the criteria for distinguishing concubines from mistresses are unclear, it is said that he had one wife, seven concubines, and eight mistresses. (During his time studying in the U.S., he reportedly had relationships with three American women, and according to some sources, he also had a Japanese mistress.)

Those who defend him argue that he should be judged by the standards of the monarchical era, claiming that as a royal family member, it was natural for him to seek the prosperity of his lineage. They even compare him to King Sejong of 15th-century Joseon. However, we must not forget that he lived in the 20th century, an era referred to as "modernity."

What modern monarch openly practiced polygamy? If one respects Prince Uichin, they have no right to criticize the harems of sultans while speaking of modern values. How can a man with 16 wives and concubines be considered a modern individual? He was merely someone who maintained a feudal lifestyle while indulging in modern pleasures, sustained by the wealth and status provided by Japanese colonialists.

Prince Uichin simply engaged in barbaric polygamy. Even Gaebyeok, the magazine founded by Son Byeong-hui under the Cheondogyo movement, strongly condemned it. A 1924 article titled "The Various Concubine Dens of Gyeongseong: A Disgraceful and Abominable Legacy" provides a vivid account of this issue. What else could it be but sheer brazenness to speak so openly about something that should be a source of shame?

"Finally, let us address the concubinage of the Yi royal family. Regarding Yi Kang, there is no need to elaborate, as everyone is already aware. Many others, such as Yi Ji-yong, Yi Jae-gak, Yi Hae-seung, and Yi Jae-geuk, were also deeply engaged in polygamous practices, without any shame or hesitation."