5th century BC), commonly known as Nan Rong and also known by his courtesy name Zirong and as Nangong Tao, was a major disciple of Confucius.

[1][2][3] Commending Nangong Kuo as a gentleman of virtue, Confucius gave the student his niece in marriage.

[1] The Analects (14.5) records Nangong Kuo's observation that Hou Yi and Ao (奡), powerful military leaders, both ended up being killed; while Yu the Great and Hou Ji, men who took care of the land, ended up with "possession of the world.

[1] Nangong Jingshu was largely responsible for Confucius' journey to the court of the Zhou king to study the rites and songs there.

[1][2] During the Tang dynasty, Emperor Xuanzong posthumously awarded Nangong Kuo the title of Count of Tan.