Today in Korean History

Today in Korean History
March 10
1864 -- Choi Je-u, founder of "Donghak" (eastern learning), a movement of farmers
against the feudal system and corrupt bureaucrats in the Joseon Dynasty, is
executed in Daegu. He was charged with deceiving the public with false religious
theories.
The movement started in South Jeolla Province as the rural economy deteriorated
from heavy taxes and Japanese removal of large amounts of rice from the country.
Donghak opposed the new wave of Christianity from the West and promoted Korea's
indigenous theories, such as "Pungsu," divination based on topography, and
"Innaecheon," a belief that an individual is equal to heaven.

1937 -- Around 20,000 Koreans are forced to relocate to northeastern China by
Japan, which colonized the Korean Peninsula from 1910 to 1945.

1959 -- South Korean labor unions celebrate Labor Day for the first time in the
country. It was later moved to May 1.

1962 -- South Korea establishes diplomatic relations with Spain.
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