"황제" (Hwangje) is the Korean term for "emperor," a title used to denote the sovereign ruler of an empire. In historical contexts, emperors held supreme authority over vast territories and diverse populations, often claiming divine right or lineage as justification for their rule. The concept of an emperor is prevalent in various cultures, including the Roman Empire and Chinese dynasties. In Korea, the title "황제" became prominent during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly with the establishment of the Korean Empire in 1897. The first emperor was Gojong, who sought to elevate Korea's status on the global stage. The title symbolizes both political power and cultural identity within the region.