King Cheoljong of Joseon, the 25th monarch, reigned from 1852 until his death in 1864. Born in 1831, he was the grandson of King Sunjo. His father, Crown Prince Hyomyeong, posthumously known as Munjo of Joseon, died before ascending the throne. Cheoljong married Lady Kim, who was posthumously known as Queen Cheorin, and was a member of the powerful Andong Kim clan.

During his reign, Queen Sunwon, Cheoljong's grandmother, initially exerted significant influence over state affairs. The Andong Kim clan, to which Queen Sunwon and Queen Cheorin belonged, maintained control over politics throughout Cheoljong's reign, rendering him a largely puppet monarch.

Cheoljong's reign saw several significant events and challenges. He sympathized with commoners, especially during a severe drought in 1853, and attempted to reform the corrupt examination system, but with limited success. His reign was also marked by a rebellion in Jinju, Gyeongsang Province in 1862, indicating widespread dissatisfaction and the deteriorating situation in the kingdom.

Cheoljong's reign coincided with increased foreign interactions and incursions. Notably, European and American vessels frequently appeared in Joseon's territorial waters, leading to several incidents, including the bombardment by an unknown foreign boat in Uljin County and the arrival of French and American ships. Despite the official policy of isolation, Catholicism spread in Joseon during Cheoljong's reign, with a significant increase in the number of Christians and French missionaries in the capital.

Cheoljong's death in 1864 at the age of 32 marked the end of his lineage on the throne. Without a male heir, the succession became contentious. Yi Jae-hwang, the second son of Prince Heungseon (later Heungseon Daewongun) and Lady Min, was favored by Cheoljong for succession. However, this choice was disputed within the court, particularly by the Andong Kim clan. Ultimately, Queen Sinjeong, mother of King Heonjong, played a crucial role in adopting Yi Jae-hwang and announcing him as the new king, Gojong of Korea. Gojong's accession marked the beginning of Heungseon Daewongun's influential role in the kingdom.