Gojong of Korea

Gojong of Korea (8 September 1852 – 21 January 1919), born Yi Myeong-bok, was the 26th king of the Joseon Dynasty and the first Emperor of the Korean Empire. His reign marked a turbulent period in Korean history characterized by the end of centuries of dynastic rule, the encroachment of foreign powers, and the eventual annexation of Korea by Japan in 1910.

Early Life

Gojong was born into the Yi dynasty as the son of Heungseon Daewongun, a powerful regent who effectively ruled Korea during the early years of Gojong's reign. His mother was Queen Consort Yeoheung Min. Gojong ascended to the throne at the young age of 12, following the death of his predecessor, King Cheoljong, in 1864.

Reign

Initially, Gojong's father, the Heungseon Daewongun, acted as regent and initiated several reforms aimed at strengthening royal authority and isolating Korea from foreign influences, a policy known as Sakoku. However, as Gojong matured, he began to assert his own authority and initiated a series of reforms known as the Gabo Reform in 1894, aimed at modernizing the Korean state and economy. These reforms, however, were met with resistance from conservative factions within the country and were ultimately unsuccessful in preventing foreign intervention.

In 1897, in response to increasing foreign pressure and the imposition of Unequal Treaties, Gojong proclaimed the founding of the Korean Empire and declared himself Emperor Gwangmu, asserting Korea's independence and sovereignty. This move was also an attempt to modernize the Korean government and military in the face of Japanese aggression.

Japanese Occupation

The Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905) and the subsequent Eulsa Treaty in 1905, which was signed without Gojong's consent, effectively made Korea a protectorate of Japan. Gojong attempted to counter Japanese influence by sending secret envoys to the Hague Peace Conference in 1907, seeking international support for Korea's sovereignty. However, this action led to his forced abdication in favor of his son, Sunjong, and increased Japanese control over Korea.

Later Life and Death

After his abdication, Gojong was confined to the Deoksugung Palace, where he lived until his death in 1919. His death led to widespread rumors that he had been poisoned, reflecting the deep resentment against Japanese rule among Koreans. Gojong's funeral procession was one of the largest public demonstrations against Japanese occupation, and he is remembered as a symbol of Korean resistance.

Legacy

Gojong's reign is marked by his efforts to modernize Korea and resist foreign domination. Despite the ultimate failure to prevent Japanese annexation, his declaration of the Korean Empire and attempts at reform laid the groundwork for future movements for Korean independence and modernization.