Japan's annexation of Korea

Japan's annexation of Korea occurred in 1910 after years of increasing influence and control. Following the Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895) and the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905), Japan established itself as a dominant power in East Asia. The treaties and agreements during this time weakened Korea's sovereignty, and Japan sought to integrate Korea into its empire for economic and strategic reasons. The annexation was formalized in 1910, leading to a period of Japanese rule that lasted until the end of World War II in 1945, characterized by efforts to suppress Korean culture and exploit resources.