Zhu Youkuang

Zhu Youkang, Prince of Zhenping during the Ming Dynasty, was born in 1400 and died in 1471. He was the eighth illegitimate son of King Ding of Zhou, Zhu Su. He was granted the title of Prince of Zhenping in the 35th year of the Hongwu reign (1402). In the 14th year of the Yongle reign (1416), he accompanied his father Zhu Su to court to receive honors and held a crown ceremony, then returned home. He died in the 7th year of the Chenghua reign (1471) at the age of 72, with the posthumous name Gongding. Two years later, his eldest legitimate son Zhu Zihou succeeded him as Prince of Zhenping.

Zhu Youkang's wife was Lady Ren, daughter of Deputy Commander of the Central Military Horse, Ren Guang. She was enfeoffed as Princess Consort in the second year of the Xuande reign (1427) and died in the third year of the Jingtai reign (1452). His concubine was Lady Li, with whom he had a legitimate son, Zhu Zihou. Zhu Youkang had multiple sons and daughters; his eldest son Zhu Zihou attained the rank of Zhenping Rongzhuang Wang (Prince of Zhenping). Other children were granted various official titles such as General of the State and Guardian General, and his descendants held notable positions within Ming familial ranks.

His descendants included several officials and titled nobles, such as Zhu Anpeng, Zhu Tongjin, and Zhu Anhe. His daughters were honored as County Ladies, with several county princesses under their command. Some grandchildren served as Grand Minister of Worship, Magistrate, and other official roles.