Gapsin Coup
In 1880, Kim Hong-jip undertook an official mission to Japan where he learned first-hand of the modernizing reforms taking place in that country and inspiring in him a desire to effect such changes in Korea. After the Gapsin Coup, he became the first vice-premier 'Jwauijeong' and entered into the Japan–Korea Treaty of 1885. Then, in 1896, Hong-jip was appointed as prime minister to suppress the Donghak Peasant Revolution. During this period, he abolished the caste system of the Joseon Dynasty and carried out an ordinance prohibiting topknots. After the assassination of Empress Myeongseong, "pro-Japan cabinet members like Kim Hong-jip and O Yun-jung were killed."