Shō Sei

Shō Sei (尚清, 1497 – 1555) was the seventh king of the Second Shō Dynasty of the Ryukyu Kingdom, reigning from 1527 to 1555. His reign is considered a period of significant cultural and economic advancement in Ryukyu.

During Shō Sei's rule, the Ryukyu Kingdom solidified its position as a major trading power in East Asia, actively participating in maritime trade networks connecting Japan, China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. He continued the policy of encouraging foreign trade, bringing prosperity to the kingdom.

Key accomplishments attributed to Shō Sei's reign include the completion of the first official history of Ryukyu, the Chūzan Seikan (中山世鑑), in 1501 (though some attribute its completion to earlier reigns), and significant improvements to the infrastructure of the kingdom, including roads and irrigation systems. He is also credited with furthering the development of the arts and sciences within Ryukyu. He also oversaw adjustments to the tax system.

Shō Sei was succeeded by his son, Shō Gen. His reign is remembered as a golden age in Ryukyu history, contributing to the kingdom's cultural and economic legacy.