Kim Yuk vs Vittorio Orlando

Kim Yuk compiled the Jibong Yuseol, an encyclopedia covering geography, customs, and practical knowledge. The work reflected his interest in practical learning (sirhak) and contributed to the intellectual movement of the late Joseon period.

Kim Yuk served as Hojo Panseo (Minister of Finance), where he implemented fiscal reforms including the copper coinage and tax simplification. His policies helped stabilize the Joseon economy after the Manchu invasions.

Kim Yuk proposed and implemented the minting of the Sangpyeong Tongbo, the first standardized copper coinage in Joseon Korea. This reform aimed to stabilize the economy, facilitate trade, and replace barter and cloth currency.

Kim Yuk advocated for the Daedongbeop, a tax reform that replaced multiple local tribute taxes with a single rice tax. This simplified the tax system and reduced corruption, though full implementation took decades.

Orlando represented Italy at the Paris Peace Conference as prime minister. He demanded the fulfillment of the Treaty of London, including Fiume and Dalmatia. President Wilson opposed these claims, leading to Orlando's walkout and eventual resignation in June 1919.

Orlando's successor signed the treaty that formally ended WWI with Austria. Italy gained Trentino, South Tyrol, and Istria, but not Fiume or Dalmatia. The perceived 'mutilated victory' fueled nationalist resentment and contributed to the rise of Fascism.