Ki Cha-o


Ki Cha-o was a Goryeo military official and nobleman who is known for being the father of Empress Ki, the primary empress of Toghon Temür of the Yuan dynasty. He was stationed as a commander in Inju. During Empress Ki's regency in Yuan, he was granted the title of prince. Through Empress Ki, he eventually became the maternal grandfather of Biligtü Khan of the Northern Yuan dynasty.

Biography

In 1266, Ki Cha-o was born into the Haengju Ki clan. He was the great-grandson of Ki Yun-suk, who had been the Vice-Director of the Chancellery. He married Lady Yi, the daughter of Yi Haeng-gŏm. Via the protected appointments system, he was given his first government office as an executive captain. He would later be promoted to Standby Gentleman of the Ministry of War. Ki died in 1328. His daughter would be sent to the Yuan after his death, and in 1340, she became the third empress of Toghon Temür.

Family

Parents
Consorts and their respective issue:
  • Grand Lady Samhanguk, of the Iksan Yi clan , Yi Haeng-gŏm
  • *Ki Sik, first son
  • *Ki Ch'ŏl, Internal Prince Deokseong, second son
  • *Ki Wŏn, third son
  • *Ki Chu, fourth son
  • *Ki Yun, fifth son
  • *Empress Gi of the Haengju Ki clan, first daughter
  • **Son-in-law: Toghon Temür, 15th Khagan of the Mongol Emprire
  • ***Grandson: Biligtü Khan Ayushiridara, Emperor of Northern Yuan Dynasty

    In popular culture

  • Portrayed by Kim Myung-soo in 2013–2014 MBC TV series Empress Ki.