In 1576, his family migrated to Liaodong, and his father, Shang Xueli, served in the army guarding the northeast frontier.

As his father did, Shang Kexi joined the army and guarded the frontier against the attack of the Jurchens.

Shang was described to be a brave and resourceful man who was skilful at mounted archery and capable in military matters.

He fought for the Qing in Southern China and established his power in Guangdong where he ruled the territory as his own domain amassing wealth and possessing a trained army.

[2] Shang died in 1676 and was succeeded by his son Shang Zhixin who rebelled shortly after but was defeated by the Han Chinese Green Standard forces of the Qing in 1677.