Shi Lang (1621[1]–1696[2]), Marquis Jinghai, also known as Secoe or Sego,[3] was a Chinese admiral who served under the Ming and Qing dynasties in the 17th century.

Kangxi Emperor once described him as a fierce warrior who was also highly adept in military command skills, however, he was a blunt and rude person who lacked basic manners and courtesy.

After fighting a number of minor operations locally with his father, he joined Zheng Zhilong's naval fleet as captain of the left vanguard.

The Qing rulers prized Shi Lang for his extensive naval experience and his network of contacts in the major trading ports of East Asia.

Following this successful campaign, Shi Lang returned to the Chinese mainland and worked hard to persuade the Kangxi Emperor to make Taiwan part of China's recognized territory.

However, the Kangxi Emperor accepted Shi Lang's views, and in 1684 Taiwan was divided into three counties and established as a prefecture of Fujian province.

Although he was later charged with arrogance, in 1688 the Kangxi Emperor received Shi Lang in audience in Beijing and allowed him to sit in the imperial presence, reiterating his confidence in him.

The Battle of Penghu, in which Shi Lang led the Qing navy to victory over the forces of the Kingdom of Tungning, is also mentioned in the later chapters.