Emperor Kōmyō was the 117th emperor of Japan, reigning from 1336 to 1348 during the Nanboku-chō period. He was born in 1320 and was the son of Emperor Go-Daigo. His reign was marked by political instability and conflict between the Northern and Southern courts. Kōmyō's rule ended when he was forced to abdicate in favor of Emperor Kōgon in 1348. After his abdication, he became a monk and took the name Shōren-in. His life reflects the complexities of Japanese imperial politics during a tumultuous era in the country's history.