With the personal name Zhao Zhen, Emperor Renzong (1010-1063) of the Song Dynasty was the sixth son of Emperor Zhenzong. His five elder brothers died prematurely one after another before he was born. Emperor Zhenzong was happy to have a son in his old age, so much so, he granted the title of Lord Qingguo to Zhao Zhen when he was five, and made him Duke Sheng when he was nine. Zhao Zhen was also designated as the crown prince. After the death of Emperor Zhenzong, Zhao Zhen ascended the throne at the tender age of thirteen.

Emperor Renzong was young but prudent and capable. He would conduct oneself sedately and behave seriously. As such, he was in great favor with Emperor Zhenzong. When Emperor Renzong came into power, he promoted Fan Zhongyan and others to important positions to take charge of state affairs. He adopted Fan Zhongyan's proposals and carried out a series of reforms, which were the famous "Qingli Reforms".

Emperor Renzong was in power for 42 years. He died at the age of 54 and was buried in the Yongzhao Mausoleum.