Jangheung Im clan


The Jangheung Yim clan is a Korean clan from Jangheung County, South Jeolla Province, with a recorded population of 37,584 in 2015.

Goryeo Dynasty

Their founder, Yim Ho, settled in Jangheung. His son became the highest-ranking government officer under King Yejong of Goryeo and was the grandfather of Queen Gongye. He also held the title of Duke of Jangheung, governing a vast area including present-day Jangheung County and parts of neighboring counties, such as Boseong, Suncheon, Haenam, Goheung, and Gangjin.
During the Goryeo period, Jangheung Yim clan produced three prime ministers and numerous ministers. They were one of the ten clans permitted to intermarry with the royal family. Notably, Queen Gongye of the clan mothered three kings: King Uijong of Goryeo, King Myeongjong of Goryeo, and King Sinjong of Goryeo.

Joseon Dynasty

Due to their close ties to the Goryeo royalty, the Jangheung Yim clan initially abstained from government positions during the early Joseon era. However, with mounting internal and external challenges, clan members stepped up to serve as generals, mayors, and righteous army leaders., for instance, fought against foreign invasions. Scholar established a school and left behind a legacy, with one of his books preserved at UC Berkeley's East Asia library.

South Korea

The clan continues to contribute to Korean society, boasting figures like Korean war hero General Yim Chung-shik, former Minister of Agriculture Yim Sang-gyu, politician Im Jong-seok, and various members serving in parliament, high-ranking government roles, and professions like law and scholarship.