The father of Gu Nanyin and Gu Qinglian, and the Minister of Personnel. He rose from a minor official to prominence largely thanks to his wife's family (Madam Gu's father, the prime minister). He is biased toward Gu Qinglian and Concubine Yun, having brought his childhood sweetheart into the household after climbing the ranks. He began distancing himself from his wife's family and felt that Madam Gu's presence made him a laughingstock. He is described as ungrateful and opportunistic.
