 Many of those who opposed the annexation had already left to join in the movements for Korean independence; others followed the advice of Ji Cheong-cheon, who argued that they should stay and learn military skills from the Japanese before joining the independence movements.However, Kim saw the annexation of Korea as an opportunity for advancement, and a chance to prove his loyalty to Japan.Following his 1915 graduation, Kim was assigned to the IJA 4th Division, based in Osaka.