The Pros And Cons Of The Japan-Korea Treaty Of Amity

Unsuccessful in invading Korea during the late sixteenth century, the Meiji Restoration nearly three centuries later allowed Japan to finally interfere in Korean affairs. With the strong desire to export manufactured goods and possession of effective Western military technology due to the rapid modernization, Japan was able to extend its influence in Korea through the forced Japan-Korea Treaty. Also known as the Japan-Korea Treaty of Amity or the Treaty of Ganghwa Island, the document was forcibly signed by Korea in 1876. It gave Japan numerous privileges and advantages such as the access to three ports for exports, the cancellation of any restrictions on Japanese trade, and the removal of Korea from China as a tributary state. Not only were