Port Hamilton incident facts for kids
The Geomun Island incident (also known as the Port Hamilton incident) was a time when the Royal Navy (Britain's navy) took control of Geomundo island in Korea. This happened from April 15, 1885, to February 27, 1887. Britain took over the island because it was worried about Russia's plans in the area.
Contents
Why Britain Took Geomun Island
Britain was concerned about the Russian Empire wanting to use Geomun Island. Russia wanted the island as a "coaling station." A coaling station was a place where ships could stop to refuel with coal. This was important for their steam-powered ships to travel long distances.
Worries About Russia
The British government heard rumors that Russia might have a secret deal with Korea. Even though these rumors came after Britain decided to take the island, they added to the worries. Britain wanted to have its own naval base in the Far East, away from China. This base would be useful if Britain went to war with Russia. It would also help if China decided to stay neutral in such a war.
Preventing Russian Control
Officially, Britain said it occupied Geomun Island to stop Russia from taking it first. This was a way to "preempt" (get ahead of) Russia's possible actions. Other countries and newspapers wondered if Russia would then take another part of Korea, like Port Lazarev or Jeju Island, to balance Britain's move.
How the Incident Ended
Russia was not happy about Britain taking Geomun Island. It threatened to occupy parts of Korea in response. To avoid more conflict, Britain and Russia talked. Britain agreed to leave Geomun Island after Russia promised not to take any part of Korea. This agreement led to the British withdrawal from the island.
Earlier Ideas for Occupation
The idea of taking Geomun Island had been discussed before. In July 1875, the British government considered it. However, the Foreign Secretary, Lord Derby, rejected the idea. He thought it would set a bad example for how countries should act.
See also
- United States expedition to Korea (1871)
- French campaign against Korea (1866)
