Gabo Reform
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| Gabo Reform | |
|---|---|
| Hangul: |
갑오 개혁
|
| Hanja: |
甲午改革
|
| Revised Romanization: | Gabo Gaehyeok |
| McCune-Reischauer: | Kabo Kaehyŏk |
The Gabo Reform describes a series of sweeping reforms introduced in Korea (at that time called Joseon) beginning in 1894 and ending in 1896, during the reign of King Gojong, in response to the Donghak Rebellion. Historians debate the degree of Japanese influence in this program, as well as its effect in encouraging modernization.
The Gabo Reform is similar to the Meiji Restoration in Japan and produced the following drastic changes:
- Korea is a sovereign country (meaning, completely independent from China).
- King ALONE (not Yangban Elite) controls the government.
- Talented persons will be allowed to study.
- Army will be established on basis of conscription, regardless of background.
- Appointment to government will be based on merit only.
- Leather working, acting, and so on will no longer be regarded as degraded work.
- Abolishment of slavery and sinbun (class) system.
At the time, the ruling Joseon Dynasty was under intense pressure from outside to open up, reform, and modernize, with Russia, Japan, and the United States competing for influence in the country. The Gabo Reform was largely the work of a group of pro-Japanese public officials.
The name Gabo (갑오; 甲午) comes from the name of the year 1894 in the traditional Korean sexagesimal cycle.
