In 1883, Lee went to study in Japan, with the support of Park Young-hyo and Seo Jae-pil. He graduated in August 1884, and returned to Korea. On 4 December, he participated in the Gapsin Coup. he was Killing to Han Kyu-jik other some Senior officials But the coup lasted only three days, and then failed. Lee escaped by boat to Japan. In 1894, he was given a royal pardon and returned to Korea.