Modernization of korean educational system in pre-colonial years, 1883-1910

The article examines the process of modernization of Korean educational system during a short period of the country’s independence (1883-1910). The government of Gojong and the «new» intelligentsia hoped that the creation of public education system, especially compulsory primary education, with the help of foreign Christian missions would create necessary conditions for carrying out progressive reforms in the country. The authors conclude that the impact of the government on the development of Korean educational system was lower than that of the individuals, enthusiast reformers, and foreign Christian missions.