Emperor Zhaozong of Tang
Li Bian was born in 889 at Pengcheng (彭城, in modern Xuzhou, Jiangsu), during the reign of Emperor Zhaozong of Tang, and might have been known as Li Pengnu in his childhood. His father was named Li Rong (), who was said to be careful and kind. Li Rong favored spending time with Buddhist monks and often visited their residences, such that he became known as Philosopher Li (). His mother was a Lady Liu, who was probably Li Rong's wife.