He was the fourth son of King Munjong (1046–1083) and Queen Inye from the Gyeongwon Yi clan and the younger brother of Sunjong, Seonjong, and Sukjong.

Uicheon and his party eventually visited the Song Dynasty capital and met with Emperor Zhezong.

Uicheon made many connections with Chinese masters during this time, particularly with scholars of Huayan sect such as Jinshui Jingyuan (靜源, 1011–1088) with whom he continued to exchange letters after returning to Korea.

King Seonjong recognized the importance of reviving Buddhism and invited Uicheon to assume the position of head monk at Heungwang Temple.

[6] In his later life, Uicheon continued his long distance engagement with Song Dynasty scholars while also teaching Korean disciples.