The term "Zulu king" refers to the monarch of the Zulu nation, a prominent ethnic group in South Africa. The Zulu kingdom was established in the early 19th century under the leadership of King Shaka Zulu, who is known for his military innovations and unification of various tribes. The king traditionally holds significant cultural and political influence within the Zulu community. Today, the Zulu king serves as a symbol of heritage and identity for the Zulu people. The current king, Misuzulu Zulu, was recognized in 2021 and plays a role in promoting Zulu culture and traditions. The monarchy is also involved in various social and economic issues affecting the Zulu nation.