Gojong of Korea, born on August 8, 1852, was the 26th king of the Joseon Dynasty and the first emperor of the Korean Empire. He ascended the throne in 1863 and played a crucial role in modernizing Korea, implementing reforms in education, military, and infrastructure. His reign marked a significant transition from a feudal society to a more modern state. In 1897, Gojong declared Korea an empire, establishing the Korean Empire to assert its sovereignty against foreign powers. His rule faced challenges, including increasing Japanese influence, which ultimately led to the annexation of Korea in 1910. Gojong's legacy is remembered for his efforts to strengthen Korea during a tumultuous period.