Empress Myeongseong

Empress Myeongseong actively opposed the pro-Japanese faction in the Joseon court and supported reforms to modernize Korea while maintaining independence. She encouraged diplomatic ties with Russia and the United States to counterbalance Japanese influence.

During the Imo Military Mutiny, Queen Min and King Gojong fled the palace as soldiers rebelled against modernization efforts. The incident led to increased Chinese and Japanese intervention in Korea, weakening the Joseon dynasty's autonomy.

Japanese agents, with the approval of Miura Goro, entered the Gyeongbokgung Palace and murdered Queen Min. The assassination was intended to remove her influence against Japanese expansion in Korea. It caused international outrage and deepened Korean resistance to Japanese control.