In January of 1735, Prince Sado was born to King Yongjo and Lady Sonhui. With the birth of the heir, the future of the throne was secure. Due to King Yongjo's impatience to formally establish him as the Crown Prince with legal status, he was moved to Choson Pavilion, which was the residence that was intended for the Crown Prince. The pavilion was located far from his parents' home. There he was cared for by nurses and governesses. Putting him there created the impression that the nation already had an adult heir. However, in Lady Hyegyong's opinion, Sado's early separation from his parents is what led his to insanity. There are many events that may have contributed to Sado's illness. These events take place throughout Sado's life starting from his early years.
Living at Choson Pavilion without the guidance of his father, Prince Sado began getting into trouble. His deviant behavior is said to have started with palace matron Han's suggestion to let the Prince play occasionally so that he could vent his frustrations.
Yasutora Sado
Locomotiva 1446, Praias do Sado, 2011.02.02
Sado Island landscapeThe matrons made swords, bows and arrows to play martial games with him. Sado thoroughly enjoyed the games, however he soon began to worry that his parents would find out. Nonetheless, the games soon became an obsession. Several years later when King Yongjo found out, Han was dismissed. At about this time, a barrier began to grow between the father and son.
The year when Prince Sado's behavior became noticeably strange was 1745. He often fell ill and lost consciousness. His illness worsened after the death of his sister Princess Hwap'yong whom he was very close to. Sado returned to his martial games and when he wasn't occupied with his games he painted. He also grew an avid interest for occult texts. He spent...