King Ladislaus IV of Hungary, also known as Ladislaus the Cuman, was embroiled in the complex political landscape of late medieval Hungary. As a monarch, he faced numerous challenges, including discontent among the noble classes and conflicts influenced by foreign powers. His reign was marked by attempts to stabilize the kingdom and assert authority over the turbulent factions within Hungary, as well as fostering relations with various ethnic groups, including the Cumans. However, dissatisfaction grew among some noble factions due to his policies and alliances.

The assassination took place in Körösszeg, where a conspiracy had been brewing among certain nobles. They perceived Ladislaus IV as a liability to their power and interests. On the fateful day, he was attacked, and the ambush resulted in his death. This shocking act not only halted his efforts to consolidate power but also intensified the ongoing struggles for control among the Hungarian nobility. The incident epitomized the fragility of royal authority during this era, as well as the volatile relations between monarchs and their vassals.

The immediate aftermath of the assassination led to a power vacuum in Hungary, fueling a struggle among various claimants for the throne. The political instability was compounded by interventions from neighboring states, further entrenching Hungary in a cycle of conflict and intrigue. The assassination of Ladislaus IV served as a catalyst for subsequent events, leading to a series of contested claims to the Hungarian throne and a reexamination of relationships between the monarchy and the nobility.