The formal impeachment of the Heungseon Daewongun in 1872 established Choi Ik-hyun as a significant political voice, challenging the regent for his controversial tax policies and the closure of academic institutions. This act of defiance signaled the beginning of a lifetime dedicated to preserving Joseon Dynasty traditions against the encroaching influence of foreign powers.
Early Official Career
Born in 1834 in Seoul, Choi Ik-hyun secured his entry into government service by passing the civil service examination in 1855. He served under King Cheoljong of the Joseon Dynasty and later performed administrative duties for the Heungseon Daewongun and King Gojong. His early tenure focused on traditional governance, though his alignment with the family of Queen Myeongseong eventually spurred his political break from the regent.
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In 1876, Choi emerged as a leader of the conservative gentry in opposition to diplomatic agreements intended to open the nation to external markets and ideologies. Fearing the economic and social impact of Western ideas and Japanese goods, he spearheaded the Uijong Cheoksa movement. This campaign sought to revive Confucian values and reject foreign influence, a goal that remained central to his public and private activities for nearly two decades.
The Righteous Army Movement
Following the 1895 murder of Queen Myeongseong and the mandate requiring men to cut their topknots, Choi organized armed resistance. Leading the Righteous Army in the countryside, he targeted Japanese soldiers and local supporters of the reform movement. In 1906, he took command of guerrilla forces in Taein and Sunchang County, eventually resulting in his capture and forced exile to Tsushima Island, where he died in 1907.
Fast facts
- Born: 1834, Seoul
- Died: 1907, Tsushima Island
- Citizenship: Joseon, Korean Empire
- Religion: Confucianism
- Primary Occupation: Philosopher
- Passed civil service examination: 1855
Questions readers ask
What caused the death of Choi Ik-hyun?
After his arrest in 1906 and subsequent detention on Tsushima Island, he refused food provided by the Japanese authorities and died three months later.
What was the significance of the Uijong Cheoksa movement?
It was a conservative initiative led by Choi and other scholars to promote traditional Confucian values and counter the spread of foreign influence.
