Han Guang was initially a minor official serving in the former Zhao state, which was conquered by the Qin state in 228 BC. In 209 BC, when Chen Sheng and Wu Guang started an uprising to overthrow the Qin dynasty, Han Guang participated in the rebellion. Chen Sheng sent Wu Chen () to seize control of the former Zhao territories from Qin forces. After conquering the Zhao territories, Wu Chen sent Han Guang to rally support from the people living in the former Yan state. Han Guang received a warm welcome and was nominated by the people of Yan to be their king.