SHORT-TERM EFFECTS
(1) Temporary reforms After the Treaty of Jeonju, Donghak rebels were able to establish an independent council system called 'jibgangso,' which carried out reforms for a short period of time. After the Japanese stamped out the rebellion, the system was abolished. Several reformations included: -redistribution of land -tax reforms -allowing the remarriage of widows -abolition of slaves -resolving social stratification |
LONG-TERM EFFECTS
(1) Lead to reforms Many of the reforms the Donghak rebels demanded were eventually carried over to and carried out during the Gabo Reform. Important reformations included: -redistribution of land -tax reforms -abolition of family-based hiring for government -resolving social stratification (2) Japanese interference While the Donghak Rebellion was meant to do good for the country, it eventually created the opportunity for Japan to interfere more in domestic affairs. Under the pretense of 'aiding our government' while it was 'overrun by rebels,' the Japanese more or less invaded Korea, marching into Seoul and occupying Kyeongbok Palace. The lending of this false helping hand was later on used as leverage for increased Japanese intrusion. (3) Colonial militia The spirit of the Donghak Rebellion carried over even after Japanese colonization. The revolutionary spirit bonded many of those from the lower class. During Japanese colonization, peasants organized militias and performed raids, ambushes, or strikes on the Japanese. They used geography to their advantage and won many battles, playing an important role in the liberation of Korea. |