Eastern Learning Divided: The Split in the Tonghak Religion and the Japanese Annexation of Korea, 1904–1910

Abstract

Tonghak (Eastern Learning) was a syncretic new religion that was founded in Korea in the late nineteenth century and is best known for its involvement in movements and rebellions in favor of greater social equality and justice. Tonghak, like other groups in Korean society, was confronted in the Russo-Japanese War of 1904–1905 and in the subsequent protectorate period up to 1910 with how to respond to Japan’s growing imperial presence in Korea. The Tonghak movement eventually split over cooperation with Japan and involvement with the pro-Japanese Ilchinhoe mass movement. This led to the formation of two rival movements, the more nationalist Ch’ŏndogyo (Religion of the Heavenly Way) and the pro-Japanese Sich’ŏn’gyo (Religion of Serving Heaven). Political differences and ongoing personal rivalries were reflected in religious competition and conflicts over the fate of Korea that were fought over on the basis of their shared Tonghak heritage.