1909 was one year before the full annexation of Korea by Japan. 4 years after the Russo-Japanese War left Korea a protectorate. 10 years before the March 1st Movement of resistance to colonial rule began.

27 Jan Headline: Wants Consul Sent Home

[Senator Marc Anthony wanted]…said Consul [for Japan] shall be admonished that California is neither Manchuria nor Korea, nor yet a province of Japan, and that said Consul shall be sent back for such action.”

The resolution was referred to the Committee on Federal Relations. His alleged offense was calling on Gov. Gillett and asking him to prevent the enactment of Japanese bills pending.

29 Jan Headline: Fight on Imperial Train

A special report from Seoul says that while the Korean imperial train was en route to Pyeng Yang one of the Emperor’s aides attacked the Home Secretary with a sword. The official escaped with his life, but suffered a wound, the severity of which is not yet known.

A bomb was thrown into a temporary building erected at Kai-Syong for the reception of the Emperor. The general feeling of unrest has caused the imperial visit to Wiju to be abandoned.

The Emperor of Korea, accompanied by the Count Ito of Japan, is making a trip of inspection through Northern Korea.