Key Events related to the evolution of the Korean culture and language By facebooker_10159491303380516 Period: 916 to 1392 During the Goryeo period: 1231 The Mongol invasions of Korea begin Period: 1392 to 1897 During the Joseon period: 1592 Japanese invasion of Korea begins under the command of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Admiral Yi Sun-sin employs the Turtle ship to repel Japanese naval forces. 1627 The first Manchu invasion 1866 French Campaign against Korea 1894 Donghak Rebellion prompts the First Sino-Japanese War and Gabo Reforms Period: 1897 to 1910 During the Korean Empire period 1905 Japan–Korea Treaty of 1905. Korea became the protectorate of Imperial Japan. Period: 1910 to 1945 During Japanese colonial rule: Aug 29, 1910 The Japan–Korea Treaty of 1910 started the annexation of the Korean Empire by Imperial Japan. 1945 The Empire of Japan surrenders to the Allies. According to the terms of Potsdam Declaration, Korea becomes independent