In a broad sense, what were the Gabo Reform measures intended to accomplish?
The correct answer and explanation is :
The Gabo Reform measures (1894–1896) were intended to modernize Korea by abolishing the traditional feudal system, centralizing government authority, and promoting economic and social reforms to strengthen the country in the face of external threats, particularly from Japan and China.
Explanation:
The Gabo Reforms were a series of sweeping changes initiated during the late Joseon Dynasty in response to both internal and external pressures. The reforms were heavily influenced by Japan, which sought to expand its influence in Korea after its victory in the First Sino-Japanese War (1894–1895). The primary goal of these measures was to modernize Korea’s political, economic, and social structures to align with the rapidly changing global environment.
One major aspect of the reforms was abolishing the traditional class system, including the yangban aristocracy and the slavery system, granting equal legal status to all citizens. This was aimed at creating a merit-based society where people could contribute to governance based on ability rather than birthright.
The government was restructured to eliminate the old Confucian bureaucracy, replacing it with a modern, centralized administrative system. This included the abolition of the King’s Council and the establishment of a cabinet-style government.
Economic reforms aimed at modernizing taxation and commerce, including the introduction of a new currency system and eliminating land tax corruption. Additionally, the judicial system was reformed to separate executive, legislative, and judicial powers, which had previously been controlled by the king.
Educational reforms introduced Western-style education and promoted scientific and technological advancements. Military reforms established a modern conscription army, reducing reliance on aristocratic military forces.
Despite their ambitious scope, the reforms faced strong resistance from conservatives and pro-China factions, leading to their eventual rollback. However, they marked a significant step toward Korea’s modernization before Japanese colonization in 1910.