US Expedition to Korea (Shinmiyangyo)
Ganghwa Island, Incheon, South Korea
What happened
A US Navy squadron under Rear Admiral John Rodgers fought Korean Joseon troops led by General Eo Jae-yeon. The United States sent warships to Korea to learn the fate of an American merchant ship lost in 1866 and to open Korea to trade. When Korea refused their demands, US sailors and Marines attacked the forts on Ganghwa Island, which guards the river route to Seoul. The forts were captured, and General Eo Jae-yeon fell.
Why it matters
Why it matters: The United States failed to get a treaty, and Korea's regent strengthened his policy of keeping foreigners out. Ganghwa Island's forts were attacked again and again in the 19th century because they guarded the river to Seoul.
What came next
The American fleet left for China on 3 July 1871. The United States and Korea signed a treaty in 1882.
Did you know?
Fifteen American sailors and Marines received the Medal of Honor for this action, the first ever given for combat in a foreign conflict.
Timeline
- 1866The American ship General Sherman is lost in Korea.
- 1866A French expedition attacks Ganghwa Island.
- 10-12 June 1871US forces capture the Ganghwa forts.
- 3 July 1871The US fleet leaves Korea.
- 1882Korea and the United States sign a treaty.