Holly Stevens, Derek Kramer, and Nuri Kim, esteemed scholars in Korean studies, delve into the fascinating history of the Korean Empire. They discuss King Gojong's declaration as Emperor in 1897 amidst shifting regional powers and its implications for Korean sovereignty. The guests explore Korea's struggle for independence against external threats from China and Japan, the tension between modernization and tradition, and the rise of nationalism. Their insights reveal the complex legacy of this brief but transformative period in Korean history.