Sonin (regent)

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Sonin (also Soni) (1601–1667) was a Manchu noble from the Hešeri clan who served as one of the Four Regents helping the young Kangxi Emperor govern the Qing dynasty after Shunzhi's death. He was valued for his language skills and long experience, and he played key roles in early Qing statecraft, including diplomacy with the Khorchin Mongols in 1628 and managing administrative duties in Chinese cities in 1630. By 1643 he was grand minister of the imperial bodyguard and helped ensure that Hong Taiji’s throne would pass to his son.

When Shunzhi died in 1661, Sonin and three other regents—Ebilun, Suksaha, and Oboi—took charge to guide Kangxi. They aimed to protect the young emperor and curb Oboi’s growing power. Over time, a power struggle developed, and Sonin, though respected, could not lead as forcefully as some younger regents. His son Songgotu helped Kangxi push out Oboi.

In 1665 Kangxi married Sonin’s granddaughter, Lady Hešeri, who became empress. This strengthened Sonin’s family influence and split the regency. Sonin died in August 1667, after which power among the regents shifted and Kangxi began to assert his own authority.