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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 sweeping changes and declarations:

1. Korea is a sovereign country (i.e., completely independent from China).
2. Only the King (and not the Yangban elite) is to control the government.
3. Those with talent are to be allowed to study.
4. The army is to be established on basis of conscription, regardless of background.
5. Appointment to the government is to be based on merit alone.
6. Leather working, acting, and so on are to no longer be regarded as degrading work.
7. Slavery is abolished, as well as the 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.^{[citation needed]}

Their policies resulted in the official discarding of the lunar calendar in favor of the modern Gregorian solar calendar, the cutting of traditional male Korean hair buns, the official designation of era names independent of the Chinese tradition, and the creation of a postal service. In 1896, with the sudden absence of Gojong, Russia quickly took the opportunity to actively interfere in domestic Korean politics, leading to the contraction of the pro-Japanese faction's influence. These years also marked the beginning of the economic exploitation of Korean natural resources by mining and timber corporations from Russia, the United States, and Japan.^{[citation needed]}

The name Gabo (갑오; 甲午) comes from the name of the year 1894 in the traditional Chinese sexagesimal cycle.

[edit] See also

• List of Korea-related topics
• History of Korea
• Joseon dynasty

[edit] References

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