With reference to the period between 1860 and 1894, discuss the causes and effects of the opening of Korea in 1876.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the causes and effects of the opening of Korea in 1876. They may adopt a chronological approach that identifies the events in the given timeframe and which links them to the causes and effects of the opening of Korea. Alternatively, candidates may choose a thematic approach and may refer to aspects such as Korea’s seclusion, internal conflict between conservative and progressive factions, external pressure from Western commercial interests, the Treaty of Kanghwa, Japanese control of the economy, further unequal treaties, and the Tonghak Rebellion. These need not all be covered or covered equally. There may be some imbalance between causes and effects, but candidates will consider both aspects. While other, relevant, factors such as Chinese influence may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question.