However, unlike the Ch'oe private guards unit (which was to personally protect the family), the Sambyeolcho assumed public functions performed by police and combat forces, effectively replacing the Six Divisions of the military.

At the same time, King Gojong and the crown prince approached the Mongols to restore power from Kim Chun.

The next year, Im Yŏn's attempt to replace King Wonjong was reversed by the crown prince (Chungnyeol) with the help from the Mongol force.

Regaining power from military officials with the support of the Mongols, the king decided to abolish the Sambyeolcho.

Resentful of the peace terms worked out with the Mongols, the Sambyeolcho, led by Pae Chung-son, revolted against the government.

Systematically blocking passage between Gangwha and the mainland, they brought nearby islands and coastal regions under their domain.

In response, its leader, Pae Chung-son, asked Kublai Khan to secure Jeolla Province and put it under the direct rule of the empire, just as preceding rebels had.