The government of Korea is in process of transition. Six years ago it was typically oriental; to-day it is essentially modern. It is Japan which has accomplished this transformation and which will doubtless in the near future perfect the governmental system which she has already outlined.

The old regime in Korea was patriarchal, modelled originally after that in China. The emperor, who was regarded almost as a sacred personality, was the sole source of all authority, executive, legislative and judicial. Under him, the highest official was the prime minister, who exercised general supervision over matters of state and court. There were, further, some half dozen heads of departments, who, together with a large number of other dignitaries, formed a deliberative council which passed upon nearly all questions of administration. In addition there were well-nigh numberless bureaus and offices.