As the Russian forces seized control of Pyongyang, the bystanders—once passive observers—immediately sprang into action.
The conquest of Hanyang (modern-day Seoul) loomed as the final blow that would deliver Joseon entirely into Russia's grasp. To many, the idea of General Kontrachenko's forces breaching the capital seemed as inevitable as the turning of a hand. It had taken them only a month to claim half the nation—how long could it possibly take to crush the remainder?
When Britain proposed a summit, the United States and Germany swiftly voiced their agreement. Japan, recognizing this as its last lifeline, eagerly acquiesced. Surprisingly, even Russia sent a heavyweight envoy, Finance Minister Sergei Witte, signaling their willingness to cooperate.
