seja

Also written: crown prince; royal heir; wangseja; 왕세자

The formally designated crown prince and heir to a Korean king, especially in Joseon-period settings.

Literal meaning

heir son; crown prince

Cultural context

The fuller title 왕세자 means royal crown prince. A seja’s education, marriage, factional support, conduct, and relationship with the reigning king were matters of state.

How dramas use it

The crown prince becomes the target of succession schemes, false treason accusations, arranged marriages, regency conflicts, assassination attempts, and pressure to produce an heir.

Usage & formality

Crown prince is more precise than simply prince. Do not confuse the Korean royal title with an imperial heir in a different political system.