(i) Early Vietnamese nationalists had a close relationship with Japan and China as they provided models for those looking for a refuge for those who were escaping French police.
(ii) In 1907-08, about 300 Vietnamese students went to Japan to acquire modern education. For many of them, the primary objective was to drive out the French from Vietnam, overthrow the puppet emperor and establish Nguyen dynasty deposed by the French. These nationalists looked for foreign arms and help. They appealed to the Japanese as fellow Asians.
(iii) Developments in China also inspired Vietnamese nationalists. In 1911, the long-established monarchy in China was overthrown by a popular movement and Sun Yat Sen and a republic were set up. Inspired by these developments, Vietnamese students organized the Association for the restoration of Vietnam.
