<P> After normalizing relations with the new Qing dynasty, Joseon experienced a nearly 200 - year period of peace . Kings Yeongjo and Jeongjo led a new renaissance of the Joseon dynasty during the 18th century . </P> <P> In the 19th century, the royal in - law families gained control of the government, leading to mass corruption and weakening of the state, with severe poverty and peasant rebellions spreading throughout the country . Furthermore, the Joseon government adopted a strict isolationist policy, earning the nickname "the hermit kingdom", but ultimately failed to protect itself against imperialism and was forced to open its borders, beginning an era leading into Japanese imperial rule . </P> <P> Beginning in 1871, Japan began to exert more influence in Korea, forcing it out of China's traditional sphere of influence . As a result of the Sino - Japanese War (1894--95), the Qing dynasty had to give up such a position according to Article 1 of the Treaty of Shimonoseki, which was concluded between China and Japan in 1895 . That same year, Empress Myeongseong of Korea was assassinated by Japanese agents . </P> <P> In 1897, the Joseon dynasty proclaimed the Korean Empire (1897--1910). King Gojong became an emperor . During this brief period, Korea had some success in modernizing the military, economy, real property laws, education system, and various industries . Russia, Japan, France, and the United States all invested in the country and sought to influence it politically . </P>

Where is korea located in relation to the united states