Gojong of Korea
Emperor of Korea, Joseon Dynasty

Born
September 8th, 1852
172 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1919
106 years ago — 66 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
South Korea
Links & References
Ruled as the 26th Emperor of the Joseon Kingdom and became the first Emperor of Korea. Gojong declared the establishment of the Korean Empire in 1897, marking a significant shift in Korean sovereignty. His reign was characterized by efforts to modernize Korea, alongside navigating complex geopolitical tensions in East Asia. Gojong faced challenges from Japan and other foreign powers during a tumultuous period in Korean history. The emperor sought to strengthen the military and promote economic development to preserve the nation's independence.
Proclaimed Korea as an empire in 1897
Oversaw modernization efforts during reign
Faced Japanese aggression and imperialism
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