Emperor Meiji promulgates Japan's first constitution, establishing a constitutional monarchy with a parliament.
Peasants inspired by the Donghak religion revolt against corruption and foreign influence; Qing and Japanese intervention leads to the Sino-Japanese War.
Japan defeats Qing China in a war over influence in Korea, establishing itself as a rising Asian power.
The Qing cede Taiwan and the Penghu Islands to Japan and recognise Korean independence.
The Guangxu Emperor and Kang Youwei launch sweeping reforms, which Empress Dowager Cixi halts after about 100 days.
The anti-foreign Boxer movement besieges Beijing's legation quarter; an Eight-Nation Alliance intervenes and occupies Beijing in 1900.
Under military pressure, Joseon signs an unequal treaty opening its ports to Japan.