Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Prep Guide for Exam Success!

The correct answer is Japan, as it had a significant impact on Korea from 1895 until the end of World War II in 1945. During this period, Japan engaged in a series of aggressive policies that led to the annexation of Korea in 1910. As a result, Korea became a Japanese colony, and Japan implemented various administrative, economic, and cultural measures that aimed to integrate Korea into the Japanese Empire.

This era was characterized by Japan's efforts to suppress Korean nationalism, promote Japanese culture, and exploit Korea's natural and human resources. The influence of Japan transformed Korea and left a lasting legacy that is still relevant in historical and political discussions today.

In contrast, while China and Russia had historical ties and interests in Korea, their influence declined significantly by the turn of the 20th century, especially with Japan's rise as a dominant power in the region. France did not have a notable role in the affairs of Korea during this time, making Japan the clear and correct answer regarding the country's dominance.