Lee Chan-won Investigates the Mystery of King Gojong's Death on 'Celebrity Soldier's Secret'

In the latest episode of KBS 2TV's entertainment show 'Celebrity Soldier's Secret' aired on January 14, 2025, singer Lee Chan-won delved into the unresolved mystery surrounding the alleged poisoning of King Gojong of Joseon. The episode featured Professor Yoo Seong-ho from Seoul National University's Department of Forensic Medicine, who humorously acknowledged his popularity by stating that his lectures fill up faster than tickets for an IU concert. Lee Chan-won playfully suggested the nickname 'Seoul National University Lim Young-woong' to ease the pressure on the professor, expressing his eagerness to attend one of his classes.

The episode explored the sudden death of King Gojong, the 26th king of Joseon and the first emperor of the Korean Empire, who passed away on January 21, 1919, at the age of 68. The official cause of death, as announced by the Japanese colonial government, was a cerebral hemorrhage. However, shortly after his death, rumors circulated that he had been poisoned after consuming sweet rice drink (식혜) laced with poison. Witnesses reported that King Gojong exhibited sudden paralysis and seizures after drinking the sweet rice drink, and his body showed unusual signs, such as missing teeth and a severely damaged tongue.

The episode raised questions about who might have poisoned King Gojong and why. Notably, he had been forced to abdicate after attempting to send a special envoy to the Hague Peace Conference in 1907. His death occurred just three days before the Paris Peace Conference following World War I, leading to speculation that he was poisoned for refusing to sign a document requested by the Japanese government.

Additionally, the show highlighted the actions of pro-Japanese figures, including Yoon Deok-young, who surpassed the notorious Lee Wan-yong in collaboration with the Japanese. The hosts were shocked to see Yoon's lavish mansion built with imported materials during the Korean Empire.

Professor Yoo Seong-ho analyzed the poisoning allegations, suggesting that if a toxic substance had been added to the sweet rice drink, King Gojong might not have realized it. However, the symptoms recorded on the day of his death did not align with poisoning.

The episode also examined King Gojong's unhealthy habits, including his insomnia and reliance on Western desserts high in sugar, which could have contributed to his health issues, including diabetes and the risk of stroke. Medical expert Lee Nak-jun discussed the potential health implications of these habits and shared the latest treatments for strokes.