Korean Politics (1) Gojoseon: the First Nation of Korea

(10) Donghak Revolution in 1894

The Donghak (Eastern Learning) movement was committed to making life better for farmers. Although its precepts were somewhat religious, its main concern was national stability and security. Leader Choe Jeu had been executed for treason in 1864, but the movement lived on, and poverty-stricken farmers flocked to his standard.

Large-scale Donghak demonstrations took place in 1892 in South provinces. In 1893, Donghak supporters flocked to Seoul to stage a demonstration in front of the royal palace, but they were dispersed by the army. In addition, about 20,000 followers assembled at Boeun, in Chungcheong Province, to proclaim their antipathy towards Japan and Europe.

Jeon Bongjun (1854-1895) assumed leadership of the Donghak movement in Jeonla Province, where farmers were being cruelly exploited. As peaceful protests had proven fruitless, the farmers resorted to violence. The government countered with draconian measures, and an inspector sent from Seoul ordered mass executions.

Jeon then led a major uprising and defeated the government army occupying the provincial capital of Jeonju. All parties agreed to a cease-fire, and submitted a comprehensive reform plan. Unfortunately, the royal court, dominated by the Min family, opted for Chinese intervention.

Eager to face down China, Japan also dispatched troops to the Korean peninsula. When the Korean government saw that foreign invasion was imminent, it agreed to a truce, including a 12-article plan with the farmers.

However, reform efforts did not proceed as planned, and Japan’s interference intensified. Farmers rose up again, bringing their anti-Japanese activities north. In the end, Donghak troops were defeated by a joint force of Korean and Japanese troops in Gongju. After the leaders were arrested, the movement fell apart.