Korea Modernization & Kabo Reforms

Crisis

1896: Korea has recently regained its sovereignty, no longer a Chinese protectorate. Although independent, it has faced pressure from both Japan and Russia, mostly through coercion to sign treaties that force its ports to open to trade.

Korea's government has undergone significant reforms. Following the assassination of Queen Min by Japanese diplomats, the King has lived in a state of fear and instituted new reforms, completely abolishing the hierarchical society and instating laws making Korea akin to a Western nation. While these laws sound helpful, many are upset and wish to reform Korea into a modern state quickly and create a more Western democracy without the King. Despite the unrest, the people remain confident in the idea of “munmyǒng kaehwa,” or civilization and enlightenment: the idea of a modernized, united Korea and a modern nation.

Delegates will primarily consist of Korean citizens of all social classes, from royalty to the peasantry. Delegates in this conference must navigate the complex challenges of Korea's modernization, including who has power in the nation, how to form a new identity, and how to create modern infrastructure that can support a new army. Additionally, Korea will have to become a nation capable of defending its sovereignty from Japanese, Russian, and Chinese interests, alongside other imperial powers that may grow interested in the nation. Japan annexed Korea in 1910 as part of its growing empire, but these delegates will hope to alter the course of history.