Yi Geun-taek

Yi Geun-taek (Korean: 이근택; Hanja: 李根澤; 30 September 1865 – 16 December 1919) was an official of Korean Empire who signed the Japan-Korea Treaty of 1905 as Minister of Military and became one of the Five Eulsa Traitors.

For merit of dismissal of the Independence Club in October 1898, Yi was appointed as mayor of Seoul, Chief of Police.

Later, Yi was Observer of North Hamgyong Province, member of Jungchuwon, and staff of Gyeongbu.

In October 1901, Yi was appointed as Major General and commander of military police.

[8] On 6 February 1904, Yi became director of finance of Board of Marshals.

[14] As Minister of Military and Law, Yi signed the Eulsa Treaty.

[16] Many officials tried to punish Yi with four other ministers who signed the treaty but it failed.

[23] After the annexation, Yi was ennobled as viscount and was part of the Jungchuwon of Korea under Japanese rule.