King Gojong was the 26th king of the Joseon Dynasty in Korea, reigning from 1863 to 1907. He is known for his efforts to modernize Korea and strengthen its sovereignty during a time of increasing foreign influence. In 1897, he declared the establishment of the Korean Empire, marking a significant shift in Korea's status. Gojong faced numerous challenges, including pressure from Japan and Western powers. His reign saw the introduction of various reforms, including the modernization of the military and infrastructure. Despite his efforts, Korea eventually fell under Japanese rule in 1910, leading to the end of the Korean Empire.