The Unlikely Buddha

The Rise of a King Born Yi Yung in 1476, Yeonsangun became the 10th monarch of Korea’s Joseon Dynasty in 1494, succeeding his father, King Seongjong. His mother, Lady Yun (later posthumously honored as Queen Jeheon), had been executed by poison for striking her husband and angering the Queen Dowager Insu. For much of his youth, Yeonsangun did not know the truth about his mother’s fate, and when he finally learned, it fueled a deep resentment and paranoia that would shape his reign. Early Reign and Hidden Darkness At the start, Yeonsangun’s rule appeared promising. He strengthened national defense and aided the poor, showing himself to be a capable administrator. However, even early on, there were signs of a violent temperament. Soon after ascending the throne, he killed one of his tutors, foreshadowing the brutality to come. The Literati Purges Yeonsangun is infamous for two major purges of scholars and officials—the Muosahwa (1498) and Gapjasahwa (1504) massacres....

In recent weeks, the war in Ukraine has entered a new phase of intensity, marked by some of the most destructive Russian missile attacks since the conflict began. These developments have unfolded against a backdrop of shifting political rhetoric from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly claimed a unique ability to influence Russian President Vladimir Putin.  However, a closer look at the events and statements from both sides reveals a troubling dynamic: Trump’s approach has not only failed to restrain Putin but has actively emboldened Russian aggression. Trump’s Position: Concessions Without Reciprocity Donald Trump’s proposed solutions for ending the war in Ukraine have consistently placed the burden of compromise on Ukraine, rather than Russia.  His public statements suggest that Ukraine should accept Russian control over Crimea and much of the eastern regions—territories that Russia has seized and occupied since 2014.  Trump has offered little in...