In the mid-19th century, the country ushered in an era of change. Now, you will see how the country struggled to achieve national self-reliance through the Donghak Peasant Movement (1894), the Gabo Reform (1894-1895), and the launch of the Dongnip Hyeophoe (Independence Society) (1896) and the Great Han Empire (1897-1910).
The flags and spears displayed here are of the kind used by the Donghak Army during the Donghak Peasant War of 1894. They protested against exploitation of farmers by the government and the landlords, and the economic invasion of the country by the Western powers. They were also engaged in an anti-feudalistic, anti-imperialistic movement, calling for the abolition of the social class system.