Ji Ping (King Zhao of Yan)

Biography & Historical Record

King Zhao of Yan (姬平, Cơ Bình), born as Ji Ping, was a monarch of the State of Yan during the Warring States period. He is historically renowned as one of the most capable rulers of his era, primarily for his role in reviving the State of Yan after it was nearly decimated by the State of Qi. After ascending the throne in 312 BC, he sought to restore the honor of his state. He famously sought the advice of Guo Kui (郭隗, Quách Ngỗi) on how to attract talented scholars to his court. Following this, he built the Gold Terrace (黄金台, Hoàng Kim Đài) to welcome scholars from all over China, attracting legendary figures such as Yue Yi (乐毅, Nhạc Nghị), Su Qin (苏秦, Tô Tần), and Ju Xin (剧辛, Kịch Tân). These men helped transform Yan into a major military power. In 284 BC, King Zhao appointed Yue Yi (乐毅, Nhạc Nghị) as the commander of the allied armies of Yan, Zhao, Wei, Han, and Qin, leading a devastating campaign that crippled the State of Qi, capturing over 70 cities.

Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms

As a historical figure from the Warring States period, King Zhao of Yan does not appear as a character in the narrative of Luo Guanzhong’s Romance of the Three Kingdoms. However, his legend and his ‘Gold Terrace’ are frequently referenced by later strategists and warlords in the Three Kingdoms era as a paragon of a virtuous ruler who respects and seeks out talent.

Ji Ping — Historical & Literary Timeline

Key Relationships

• Key Figures in his Court
  • Yue Yi (乐毅, Nhạc Nghị): The primary general and strategist who carried out the conquest of Qi.
  • Guo Kui (郭隗, Quách Ngỗi): The advisor who proposed the policy of ‘Gold Terrace’ to attract talent.
  • Su Qin (苏秦, Tô Tần): The diplomat who helped orchestrate the alliances against Qi.