"일제 강점기" refers to the period of Japanese colonial rule over Korea from 1910 to 1945. During this time, Korea was annexed by Japan, leading to significant political, social, and economic changes. The Japanese government implemented policies aimed at assimilating Koreans and suppressing Korean culture, language, and identity. The era was marked by resistance movements, such as the March 1st Movement in 1919, where Koreans protested for independence. Despite harsh repression, these movements laid the groundwork for future efforts toward Korean independence, which was ultimately achieved after Japan's defeat in World War II.