Sunjong of Korea

Sunjong became the last emperor of Korea after his father Gojong was forced to abdicate by Japan. His reign was largely ceremonial, with real power held by the Japanese Resident-General. He was a symbolic figurehead during the final years of Korean sovereignty.

Sunjong was forced to sign the treaty that formally annexed Korea into the Japanese Empire. The treaty ended the Korean Empire and Joseon dynasty, beginning 35 years of Japanese colonial rule. Sunjong was stripped of all political power and reduced to a figurehead.

Sunjong died at Changdeokgung Palace, marking the end of the Joseon royal line. His funeral was a major event that sparked renewed Korean nationalist sentiment, though it was heavily monitored by Japanese authorities. He was the last Korean monarch.