You are on page 1of 88

Contents

04 Foreword
05 Introduction

Chapter 1. His contribution to the world


The Ultimate Naval Battles
08 The Battle of Salamis
11 The Battle of Gravelines
15 The Battle of Hansando
20 The Battle of Trafalgar

Imjin War
24 The Imjin war

International Reputation
28 International Reputation
of Yi Sun-sin

Chapter 2. His contribution to Korea


32 Inspire Korean
39 Domestic Reputation
Chapter 3. Who is he?
42 Timeline
46 Life
50 Keywords
55 Quotes and Poems
56 Historical Sites
59 People
60 Major Battles
67 Arsenal

Chapter 4. The truth about him


72 Looking for Truth
73 Truths and Falses
76 Letter writing campaign

Chapter 5. VANKY introduces him


78 VANKY introduces
him to the world

Publisher
VANK
TEL. +82-2-921-3591~2 FAX. +82-2-921-3593
Website. yisunsin.prkorea.com E-MAIL. yisunsin@prkorea.org
Sponsor
Gyeongsangnamdo government
Design
Saengki (www.saengki.co.kr)
04 Foreword

Foreword
Dear Readers,

My name is Tae-ho Kim, the Governor of the Province of Gyeongsangnam-do in Korea. I am both
pleased and honored to have the opportunity to greet you through this magazine.
Gyeongsangnam-do is an important province for a number of reasons. Currently, in the fall of
2008, we are the host of the 10th Conference of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. Government
representatives from 165 countries, environmental specialists, NGOs, and other interested
international organizations will be participating in the conference. It is also a popular tourist
destination that attracts many visitors each year from throughout Korea and the world. Tourists
visit for the scenery of its beautiful mountains and seas, and for its rich culture and history.

Gyeongsangnam-do also has an important place in world history. It was the site of several naval battles that turned the
tide against Japanese attempts to invade mainland Asia. In 1592, Japan invaded Korea, a land whose people favored peace
and at the time was known as Joseon or “the land of morning calm”. The Japanese invasion led to the outbreak of the
Imjin War (1592~1598), which eventually took the lives and destroyed the homes and property of millions of Koreans.
Faced with this tragic war, Korean Admiral Yi Sun-sin came forward to protect Korea and the peace in Asia.
Gyeongsangnam-do was the site where many of his naval battles took place. He defeated the Japanese Navy in all of his
battles, at least 23 victorious battles in 7 years during the Imjin War. This is a great record of naval success that is rarely
found in Eastern or Western history. Such tremendous victories were made possible thanks to his foresight in preparing
Korea for its defense against invasion. Before the outbreak of war, Yi Sun-sin built the Geobukseon, the world’s first
ironclad battleship, in order to defend against Japanese attempts to invade. This innovative battleship played a significant
role in Yi Sun-sin’s victories by helping the Korean navy overcome being outnumbered by the amount of Japanese ships.
Unfortunately, most information on the Internet and in influential encyclopedias fails to accurately represent the
aggressive nature of Japan during the Imjin War, and the important role of Admiral Yi Sun-sin in protecting peace in Asia.
One of the primary reasons for these inaccuracies is that Japan had the advantage of using the Internet to promote its
perspective on history before Korea. As a result, wider perspectives and important pieces of information from Korea and
other Asian countries have been left out of the historical record.

To address this problem and to fill in some of these gaps in world history, since December of 2007 the Province of
Gyeongsangnam-do and the Cyber Diplomatic Mission, VANK (Voluntary Agency Network of Korea), have been
engaged in a joint project to discover, analyze, and correct inaccurate historical information on the Internet and in
encyclopedias and textbooks. This magazine is the result of our effort.
However, correcting distortions of our history cannot be accomplished without your help. Historical truth and accuracy
needs your interest, cooperation, and commitment. By reading this magazine, I hope that you will learn more about the
accurate information of the Imjin War and the brave leadership of Admiral Yi Sun-sin during the war. I also would like to
ask a favor of you; please, let your family, friends and neighbors know as well.

Governor
The Province of Gyeongsangnam-do, Korea
September 2008
Introduction 05

Introduction
Greetings Readers,

"Your Highness, I still have twelve battleships!"


This is what Admiral Yi Sun-sin told the Korean King during a war against Japan in the Joseon Dynasty period. This statement showed
his determination to go on to war with hope and without fear, despite the overwhelmingly unfavorable conditions that faced the Korean
forces. Using his strong will, Yi rescued the endangered country of Korea and protected the peace in East Asia by achieving tremendous
victories over Japan that would become some of the greatest in world naval history. For Koreans, Yi always comes out on the top of the list
of most respected heroes in the 5000 years of Korean history. His sayings have long been used as Korean political campaign slogans,
corporate CEO business philosophies, ways to stimulate the imagination of entertainers, and inspiring motivational quotes in the
textbooks of Korean students. These examples show clearly that Yi has immense influence over Korean society. But, what do six billion
foreigners think about Korea’s greatest hero Yi Sun-sin? This very question was the seed of this magazine.

In January of 2008, Koreas Cyber Diplomatic Mission, VANK (Voluntary Agency Network of Korea) and the Korean province of
Gyeongsangnam-do, found through extensive research that information about Yi Sun-sin and the Imjin War is seldom included in foreign
history textbooks, encyclopedias and popular websites. Many Koreans are surprised to learn that Yi’s leadership and bravery, which can
help to inspire youth in the world beyond Korea, are often neglected in educational resources available for foreign students. Even more
surprising is that the few resources that do have limited content about Yi often provide incorrect information. The dissemination of such
misinformation gives some cover to Japan, who had engaged in an aggressive war of invasion against Korea. Misinformation also
degrades Yi’s character and accomplishments during the Imjin War.

In recognition of this problem, VANK has decided to publish this magazine to inform international audiences about Yi Sun-sin, a man
who changed the destiny of Korea and became one of the greatest heroes in Korean history. For this magazine, we put considerable effort
into reflecting international perspectives, rather than only a Korean perspective, in our descriptions of Yi’s life and accomplishments
during the Imjin War. World naval history and examples of leadership to save a country are familiar and inspiring topics for people across
the world. Thus, we present Yi Sun-sin’s leadership, accomplishments, and contribution in a more global context through a chapter titled
“His contribution to the world”. In the chapter, you will get to know about the Imjin War and the world’s four greatest naval battles,
which include the Battle of Hansando, the Battle of Salamis, the Battle of Calais, and the Battle of Trafalgar.

When you read this magazine and begin to learn about Korea’s most respected hero Yi Sun-sin, his accomplishments and leadership, as well
as his great battle at Hansando, the knowledge you gain will be valuable to your future. The primary reason we are publishing this magazine
is to promote Yi Sun-sin to the world. However, we promote Yi Sun-sin not merely because he is Korea’s greatest naval commander who was
never defeated in battle, but more importantly, because he devotedly loved the people and the community to which he belonged, and served
them even at the cost of his own life. The spirit that he showed can serve as a moral guide for the lives of contemporary people all around the
world. The life and philosophy of a great hero who saved a country in crisis can be the seed that produces more heroes among future
generations. We hope that through this magazine, you too can become heroes someday and change the world!

Korea’s Cyber Diplomatic Mission, VANK


September 2008
Gyeongsangnamdo
government’s
challenge to search
Geobukseon
Geobukseon ship played very important role in most battles
of Admiral Yi. In battle, it led whole fleet and attacked
Japanese ships first. After it dispersed Japanese battle line,
remaining warships followed it. Admiral Yi could win
continuously at sea battles with various strategies using this ship.

Although many historical records about this ship were handed down to
present, no wreckage of this ship was found. If some wreckage of this ship is discovered, it would be meaningful
excavation in Korean history and very helpful for scholars who study the Imjin war period. Hence, Gyeongsangnamdo
government started huge project that search for wreckage of Joseon’s warships and armories since June 2008.

They’ll mainly explore the sea in front of Chilcheondo island it because many Joseon’s warships were sunken in this sea
at the battle of Chilcheonryang. Battle of Chilcheonryang took place after King Seonjo deprived of Admiral Yi's rank as
Commander-in-Chief, because he became entangled in domestic political strife. King Seonjo appointed Won gyun
instead of Admiral Yi. Won gyun's Joseon navy decisively was defeated over Japanese at the battle of Chilcheonryang in
July 1597. Therefore, many warships sank on this seabed and it means there are many possibilities that wreckage of
Geobukseon or other relics can be discovered.

Although there is only a 1 percent possibility that Geobukseon still exist in the seabed, Gyeongsangnamdo government
and Koreans’ challenge to search Geobukseon will not end.

Sea area in front of Chilcheondo island The governor of Gyeongsangnamdo A professor having presentation about the
is beating traditional drum structure of Geobukseon
Chapter 1
His contribution
to the world
The Ultimate Naval Battles
- The Battle of Salamis
- The Battle of Gravelines
- The Battle of Hansando
- The Battle of Trafalgar
08 His contribution to the world

The Battle of Salamis


It was one of major battles of Graeco-Persian wars which took place
from B.C. 492 to B.C. 448. Although, this battle has less fame than another major field
battles, such as the Battle of Marathon and the battle of Thermopylae, it was turning
point for the Athens.

1. Historical Background confronted Persian large forces in the field of Marathon,


which is situated in north-east from Athens. After this
1⃞ Conflicts between Persian and Greek battle, one messenger ran to the Athens and conveyed the
At that time, the world was under control of the Persian victory of their army. He died when he accomplished his
Empire. Persians established immense empire from West mission. His mission became the inspiration for the
Asia to Cacausus areas. To expand their land to the west, Marathon race of modern Olympic Games.
this thriving empire had to conquer Greek city states. They
constantly invaded Greek through many their king’s reigns. 1⃞ Invasion of Persian
Darius, the Great planned the invasion to the Athens again,
The battle of Salamis took place during the reign of Persian but he died before he carried out plans and this mission
king, Xerxes, the son of Darius the Great of Persia whom was handed down to his son. Xerxes wasn’t warlike man,
invaded Ionian area. Several city-states in Ionia but his followers didn’t let him stay in Persia. He settled
confederated and rose in rebellion against Persian Empire. invasion plan and gathered men from his colonial areas.
Darius the Great sent Persian army and put down a When he was ready to war, his army marched to the Greek
rebellion. When Ionian city-states asked aides, only Athens mainland. Herodotus assumed Persian army was around
sent army for them. Consequently, the Persians settled the 5.28 million, but modern Sagas calculated estimated army
plan to invade Athens and another Greek city states which was 360,000.
allied with Ionians.
They marched down along coastline, because their navy
When Persians invaded Greek mainland again, Athenians supplied food and arms. Finally, Persian army arrived at
The Battle of Salamis 09

They marched down along this Greek strategy and sent his naval fleet to here.

coastline, because their navy


On the way to Artemisium, Persian fleet lost a lot of
supplied food and arms. Finally, warships during a heavy rainstorm. And they lost more
warships at the Battle of Artemisium. This was one of the
Persian army arrived at Takis of
reasons which Greek fleet defeated Persian fleet at the
Malis which is located nearby Battle of Salamis. However, Greek Historian Herodotus
claimed that Persians filled the loses by another Greek city
Thermopylae, this was the key
states in Aegean Sea which were under the Persians.
point of the Central Greek. If
When Greek fleets were told the defeat of the Battle of
Greeks lose this area, Athens
Thermopylae, they withdrew and headed to the island of
might be devastated by Persians. Salamis to evacuate their people from their states to another
safe place.
South Greek 31 city states allied
and sent their army against
2. The Battle
Persians. Spartans were the
leader of this allied army. 1⃞ Fleet and commanders
Winner: Greek fleet Persian fleet
Takis of Malis which is located nearby Thermopylae, this Commander Commander-in-chief : Commander-in-chief :
was the key point of the Central Greek. If Greeks lose this Eurybiades, Xerxes I of Persia
Spartan commander
area, Athens might be devastated by Persians. South Greek
Warships Between 300~370 Around 800 warships,
31 city states allied and sent their army against Persians.
tiremes, and smaller (Conservative estimate : 650
Spartans were the leader of this allied army. 50-oared pentekonters tiremes, Greek historians
claim : over 10,000)
At August 18, B.C.480 the battle of Thermopylae had
joined, Leonidas, a king of Sparta confronted Persian army 1⃞ Council of war
with 7,000 Greek army. Persian army was twentyfold than After Athens escaped to the island of Salamis, the leaders of
Greeks. For two days, Persians couldn’t defeat small Greek 31 united Greeks had meeting. Spartans asserted to
army. Crafty Xerxes asked to the Spartan traitor the withdraw to the Strait of Korint which is located nearby
shortcut which is directly connected to Thermopylae. Soon, their land. Athens opposed to this idea, because they knew
the Persian contingent took a shortcut. Greek allied army their people would be scapegoat of massacre by Persian
suggested to Leonidas to retreat from Thermopylae, but army.
this brave king and his 300 bodyguards left and had battle
with Persians. The result of meeting was in the dark. Themistocles went
out of meeting site and thought the way to let Greek fleets
While Leonidas and his army were in the battle, Greek city stay in island of Salamis. After few minutes, he sent his
states’ fleets were gathered at Artemisium and mainland to dutiful and Persian slave to the Xerxes with the letter. He
support Greek army in Thermopylae. Xerxes penetrated wrote the division of united Greeks and made Xerxes to
10 His contribution to the world

believe they would win if they attack this island as soon as Greek warships. Soon, Persian warships were mixed
possible. together and couldn’t move either forward or backward.
Xeres made an order to their navy to attack Greek fleets in
island of Salamis. When Greek leaders were told the
Persian fleet was coming to the island, they had no choice.
They prepared the battle.
While Greeks were preparing the battle, Xerxes were at the
mountain Aigaleos to observe the battle. By his side, his
entourage wrote down the name of the warship which
destroyed much Greek warships.

1⃞ Battle has joined


When Persian warships entered, Greeks winded a ship and
attacked first. Themistocles’ strategy was to break the line
of battle by their ships’ bronze ram. Greek ships started
rammed down Persian warships gradually and they
surrounded Persians. The Persian warships at the front line
were trying to retreat, but their rout of retreat was stuck by
another Persians ships. While Greeks lost only 40 ships,
Persians lost about 200 warships and they were sunk in the
sea.
The Persians divided their fleet to send some ships around
the island and made them to cut off the Greeks. Remaining
warships had to divide their fleet again, cause the islet in 3. Aftermath
front of the island of Salamis. They sailed into the Strait of
Salamis, while Greeks were making a line of battle. The Athens’ fleet led the victory and the Golden Age of
Athens started by this battle. After this battle, Persians
invaded Athens again, but Greeks defeated them. When
Graeco-Persian wars were ended, Athens established
Athenian Empire and Greek became one of the powerful
countries in Mediterranean Sea. The Modern Hellenic Navy
celebrates this day’s victory as Battle of the Salamis day in
every 12 September.

On the other hand, Persian Empire had more frequent


rebellions in their colonial areas. It lasted 150 years more, till
Greeks pretended to be overwhelmed by the Persian fleet the Alexander the Great defeated the last Persian king’s
and tricked the Persians to believe that Greeks were army.
retreating. Though Persian ships were not easy to enter the
strait of Salamis, they suddenly entered into the sea to chase
The Battle of Gravelines 11

The Battle of Gravelines


It was a part of Spanish Armada’s campaign against England. Spanish Armada-fleet in Spanish- sailed
toward England to return her as a catholic country and retaliate English pirates’ buccaneering.
Though Spaniards had outstanding land forces, they failed to embark them and anchor any port of England
neither Scotland. English defeated Spaniard at the English Channel off Gravelines near by Calais. After this
battle, Spain gradually lost her dominance at sea and it gave a chance for England to be a new power at sea

1. Historical Background August, 1572. Hundreds of French protestants, Huguenots


were butchered by Catholics at the wedding of Princess
1⃞ Establishment of protestantism Marguerite. Catholic dominant countries, Spain and France
In 1517, a German priest, Martin Luther released The 95 hailed this massacre. He dispatched the army to the
Theses and his ideas spread through the European Netherlands which was under control of Spain in order to
continent phenomenally. Though, he was excommunicated suppress Protestantism. This sparked the movement of
from Roman Catholic Church, his doctrine inspired the independence of the Netherlands. In 1566, Protestant party
Protestant Reformation. By the Peace of Westphalia, the in the Netherlands rose in rebellion on the behalf of
Protestant Princes of Germany gained the right to choose England. Ironically, his suppression policy became the one
their states’ religion. of reasons of defeat at the Battle of Gravelines. Dutch
protestants interfered the embarkation of Spanish land
As time goes by, Protestantism was welcomed in most forces.
European countries and the conflicts sparked between two
religions was drifted into war. England broke with Rome 1⃞ Conflict between England and Spain
during reign of Henry VIII. He closed all Roman Catholic At late 16C, Spain was powerful state, and she possessed
abbeys and monastery and seized their property and many colonies in American continent. Philip II, King of
announced that he’s the head of English Church. He Spain was sincere Catholic and his ambition to be a ruler of
conducted this religious rebellion against Rome, because England never subsided. While Spain was concentrated in
the Rome disapproved his divorce. the holy war against Turks and Protestantism, Elizabeth I,
This religious conflict reached climax in France on 24th the Queen of England dispatched Francis Drake to the
12 His contribution to the world

Spanish Main and encouraged English to pirate Spanish Philip exaggerated his invasion
ships.
plan as a holy war against
Beside, she followed her father’s religious policy and Protestantism to gain support
supported the Protestant dominant countries in the
continent, the Netherlands for instance. She gave aides for from the Rome. In the end, he
Protestants in the Netherlands to protect this area from gained the authority of invasion.
Spain. The distance between England and this land wasn’t
so far, thus Spaniards in here was huge threat to the But, it crashed by Drake whom
England. Spaniards had ships to carry strong land forces drove his ships and burnt a half of
from this area to the England. For these reasons, Elizabeth
always had contacts with Dutch. Spanish ships which were
anchoring at Cadiz in 1587. These
The presence of Elizabeth’s pirates at sea was one of the
biggest obstacles to Spain. Philip regarded English ships ships were carrying war supplies
since July, 1580 and accused Drake due to his piracies in the
and these were supposed to be
West Indies and Atlantic Ocean. He occasionally sailed to
the West Indies and sacked the Spanish colonies or Spanish used during the invasion of
ships on their return way to their mother country.
England.
However, Elizabeth gave him the honor of knighthood. In
the mean time, England dispatched army to the
Netherlands and joined the independence war against
Spanish rule in 1585.
Marquess of Santa Cruze at first place. He was supposed to
1⃞ Philip’s invasion plan of England conquer Ireland and, then would march to the England. But
Philip determined the invasion plan of England shortly this plan was scattered after his sudden death. Duke of
after he was told the execution of Mary, Queen of Scotland. Medina succeeded him. He was great soldier but,
Catholic Mary was supposed to overthrow Elizabeth’s inexperienced at sea battles. It was one of reasons why
throne on the behalf of Spain. Philip exaggerated his Spanish lost this campaign. Philip’s plan was focused on
invasion plan as a holy war against Protestantism to gain combining his fleet with Parma’s land forces off Spanish
support from the Rome. In the end, he gained the authority Netherlands. He and his councilors were convinced that
of invasion. But, it crashed by Drake whom drove his ships battle-trained Spaniards would defeat English army if they
and burnt a half of Spanish ships which were anchoring at land on England.
Cadiz in 1587. These ships were carrying war supplies and
these were supposed to be used during the invasion of 1⃞ England’s preparation
England. By this unexpected attack, Spanish lost lots of war English knew the importance of collecting information
supplies and warships and Philip had to suspend his more than Spanish. They collected information from
invasion plan. various routes. English prime minister, Francis
Walsingham spied on Spain through his person in Spanish
Spanish invasion plan was settled by veteran sailor, palace. According to England documents, he already knew
The Battle of Gravelines 13

their commanders’ name were updated by English spies in


Spain. According to the letter was sent to the English
government, 130 ships including 4 galleases and 4 galleys
were prepared for the invasion, while Don Alonso di Lieva
was appointed as the general in charge of the Spanish land
forces. A Spanish ship was sent to Calais to set up the plan
with Parma’s army before fleet departed. This letter was
based on a captain’s letter of Italian ship, was being worked
for the Spanish government.

2. The Battle

1⃞ Spanish sail to the England


Armada sailed off Lisbon and headed to the Flanders,
present-day territory of France, Belgium and the
Netherlands, which Parma’s land forces were awaiting the
arrival of them, but their sail was delayed due to heavy
rainstorms. In the middle of July, Spaniards could reach
western part of English Channel. On July 30, Armada was
observed from the Cornwall while the English fleet was
anchoring at the Plymouth port. Armada was in formation
National Maritime Museum, London
of crescent and advanced to the Flanders along the English
Spanish plan about 1 year before the invasion. England Channel. After first battle, Lord Admiral divided fleet into
immediately conducted defense strategy and ensured the four squadrons, which led by himself, Vice admiral, Rear
cooperation of Protestants in Netherlands. In same time, Admiral and Sir Martin Frobisher. They attacked Spanish
English redesigned their warships and built more ships. fleet from time to time. During these attacks, one ship was
The progress of Spanish plans, the structure of fleet and captured by Drake and one ship was burnt by mistakes.

1⃞ Fleet and commanders


Winner : English fleet Spaniard fleet
Commanders • Lord Admiral : Charles, Lord Howard of Effingham • Commander-in-chief : Duke of Medina Sidonia
• Vice Admiral : Sir Francis Drake • General(Cammander of land forces) : Don Alonso di Lieva
• Rear Admiral : Sir John Hawkins
• Sir Martin Frobisher
• Total : 28,000
Crews • Sailors and seaman: 15,000 • Soldiers : 20,000
• Sailors and others: 8,000
• Total : 130
• Total : 197
Warships • Fighting ships : 65(Galleases : 4. Galleys : 4)
• Fighting ships : 75(new built galleons :20)
• Hospital ships: 2
14 His contribution to the world

Although English couldn’t give much damage to 1⃞ Result


Spaniards, they made Spaniards to consume ammunition. Spaniards was supposed to sail back to the English
Medina-Sidonia sent messages to Duke of Parma and asked Channel, but storm led them to the north only. They gave
him to prepare ammunition for his fleet. On the contrary of up the invasion plan, because they already ran out of
them, English fleet could replace ammunition, drink water ammunition and foods. There’s only one way to return
and foods from near by ports. This was the one of reasons home for the Spaniards, Medina Sidonia commanded to
why English could prevent the invasion of Spaniards. retreat and planned to sail back around Scotland and
Ireland. The king of Scotland, James didn’t allow Spaniards
On 6-7th August, Armada anchored near by Calais where to anchor at his land, he was supposed to be granted the
Parma’s army would join them. It wasn’t easy to anchor in throne from the Elizabeth. He did not want to disturb the
here due to their ships’ size, they waited Parma’s transport mind of Queen.
ships, pontoons from there. English fleet also anchored
beside Spaniard fleet. Medina Sidonia already sent his On their way to Spain, Spaniards were suffered from heavy
messenger to Parma before his fleet reach Calais, but storms and starving. Starving Spaniards landed on Ireland,
Parma’s army were never shown. At that time, Parma but they were killed by the army of Elizabeth. The Medina
thought this invasion would be failed, therefore he sent his Sidonia could reach Santander on September 13 after he lost
army into the inland according to newly released Spanish a half of his fleet and hundreds of sailors.
research.

1⃞ At Battle day 3. Aftermath


On August 6, southwestern wind began to blow, it was
prevailing wind for the English fleet. Armada couldn’t After this battle, the war between England and Spain lasted
proceed toward to England due to this wind. Around till the treaty of London joined in 1604. England kept
midnight, English sent fireships to the middle of Armada, supporting the Protestants in the Netherlands and
Spaniard sailors guessed these ships would be exploded in snatching Spanish ships which carried huge amount of
a minutes, they cut cables which link ships and sailed off. gold and products from Spanish colonies in America. As
Armada’s formation in crescent dispered by this, the chance time goes by, the fame of Spanish Invincible Armada was
to defeat Armada had come for the English. Before Medina faded, nevertheless this was rebuilt later. It became the
Sidonia refit the formation, English warships attack reason why Spain gradually lost her dominance at sea. As
Armada off Gravelines, near by Calais. Spaniards Spain lost her power, England gained power at sea.
attempted to board ship and had fights on English ships, it England established East India Trading Co. in 1600 and it
was representative tactics of them. To avoid boarding became the foundation of English Empire. She acquired the
tactics, English ships discharged guns from distance and colony, Virginia-this was named after Elizabeth I- in North
avoided closeness of Spanish ships. Spanish ships carried America in 1604.
more cannons which the range is short and their recharge
time was longer than English ones. English ships
discharged fire simultaneously. Spaniards ships were stuck
in the middle between English fleet and coast of Low
countries. Suddenly, wind changed and Spaniards could
sail off to the north.
The Battle of Hansando 15

The Battle of Hansando


It was the biggest and decisive naval battle during disastrous war, Imjin war which took place from 1592 to
1598. Battle-trained Japanese invaded under control of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. His ambition was broken in
pieces by Joseon's Navy and Admiral Yi Sun-sin. After this battle, Japanese changed their strategy of their
invasion of Korea and the whole war situation was dramatically reversed.

1. Historical Background it. His ambition was to be the first Japanese ruler who
conquered China. Furthermore, he worried about the
1⃞ Toyotomi's ambition possibility that his subordinate daimyos would rebel
In 1392, Korean medieval against him.
state, Joseon dynasty He took action for his ambitious plan. At 1587, he
established in Korean conquered Daemado Island, also known as Tsushima in
peninsula and they kept Japan, and sent the mayor of this island as his envoy to
diplomatic relationship with Hanyang, capital of Joseon dynasty. The mayor was
Japan. Two countries demanded to convey Toyotomi's war plan against Ming
exchanged envoy visits for dynasty and Joseon's unconditional surrender. Because he
200 years and enjoyed peace. was received economic support from Joseon dynasty, he
The circumstance changed couldn't tell the truth. He only requested Hanyang to send
Toyotomi Hideyoshi envoy to Toyotomi.
shortly after Toyotomi
Hideyoshi succeeded his former lord, Oda Nobunaga.
Hanyang dispatched Tongsinsa, diplomatic mission, to
At 1500s, Japan was in turmoil. The war between daimyos, Japan at 1590. They returned with Toyotomi's letter. In this
feudal lords, kept dragging on and on until Toyotomi letter, he claimed his war plan against Ming dynasty again.
Hideyoshi united Japan. After unification, Toyotomi On the other hand, two envoys reported to their king after
thought the chance to invade China had come to him. He their trip. One of them asserted Toyotomi will invade
always carried the fan which East Asia's map is printed on within few years, but another opposed to this idea.
16 His contribution to the world

1⃞ Joseon's preparation The situation at sea


Joseon government speculated the possibility of Japanese
was obviously different. Combined
invasion and prepared for the war since two envoys came
back from Japan. They appointed three provincial
Jeollado and Gyeongsangdo fleet
governors and dispatched them in southern provinces of defeated Japanese navy
Korean peninsula. The governors prepared armory and continuously. Before the battle of
built castles. Especially, many castles were built or rebuilt in Hansando, combined Joseon fleet
Gyeongsangdo during this time. New barracks were also
won for seven times. They could
built in this province.
win because Joseon fleet was
To settle defense plans, Joseon government appointed new consists of well-trained navy and
naval commanders of southern provinces' fleet. In February sailors and Joseon warships were
1591, Yi sun-sin was appointed as Jeollajwado well equipped with medium-and
Sugunjeoldosa, commander-in-chief Jeolla province's
long- range guns. Furthermore,
western fleet and Yi eok-gi was appointed as Jellawudo
Sugunjeoldosa, commander-in-chief Jeolla province's
they had outstanding commander,
eastern fleet. In early 1592, Won gyun was appointed as Admiral Yi.
commander-in-chief Gyeongsangdo province's eastern
fleet. These commanders prepared for the war in their local
seas. Jeollado province' commander, Yi sun-sin perfectly
prepared to defend his domain sea. A lot of amount of
armory, ammunition, gun powder, foods were reserved participated in this war, only 8,000 Korean army had to
under control of him. New warships, including 3 confront numerous invasion. Battle-hardened Japanese
Geobukseon were also built.possessed many colonies in army defeated Joseon's armies by matchlock at every battle.
American continent. Philip Koreans also was using firearms, such as cannons at siege
warfare, but they were mostly using sword, spear and bow
1⃞ Japanese invasion at battles.

When King Seonjo was told the invasion of numerous


Japanese army and Koreans' defeats, he dispatched his
most trusted general, Sin Rip to defend Japanese invasion.
General, Shin was famous for his missions against Manchus
at the northern most border of Joseon dynasty. He defeated
them in many times and became the General. Sin Rip
confronted the first Japanese army, Gonishi yukinaga's at
the Tanguemdae, Chungju, but his cavalry couldn't defeat
Japanese. No one could halt the Japanese army's march to
Japanese matchlock gun
the Hanyang after this battle. On April 30, King seonjo
At April 13, 1592 the Imjin war broke out. Japanese army retreated to Northwest, and Japanese seized Hanyang after
arrived at Korean peninsula. Almost 160,000 Japanese 2 days.
The Battle of Hansando 17

2. The battle
1⃞ Fleet and commanders
Winner: Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commanders • Joellajwado suguntongjesa: Yi sun-sin • Commander-in-chief : Wakisaka Yasuharu
• Joellajwudo suguntongjesa: Yi eok-gi
• Gyeongsangwudo suguntongjesa: Won gyun
• Korean record: 54
Warships • Total : 73
• Japanese record: 109(Big ships: 59, Small ships: 50)

1⃞ Victory at sea invasion plan was focused on land battles and building
The situation at sea was castles. After continue defeats at sea, Toyotomi denounced
obviously different. his daimyos and ordered to change war strategy. Japanese
Combined Jeollado and troops of Wakisaka yasuharu, Guki yoshitaka and Gato
Gyeongsangdo fleet yoshiyaki evacuated from north to the coast of the south
defeated Japanese navy sea. They built castles at Angolpo, Jinhae to ambush Joseon
continuously. Before navy and prepared war battles. It became headquarter of
Panokseon ship
the battle of Hansando, Japanese navy.
combined Joseon fleet won for seven times. They could win
because Joseon fleet was consists of well-trained navy and Although, Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered their navy to be
sailors and Joseon warships were well equipped with united and attack Joseon navy together, Wakisaka
medium-and long- range guns. Furthermore, they had Yasuharu decided to defeat Yi's fleet by himself. He was
outstanding commander, Admiral Yi. appointed as a chief of navy at the beginning of Imjin war,
but couldn't have naval battle till this time. He thought he
PanokseonJoseon had trained navy and sailors to protect might gain more fame if he won. On July 7, 1592, his fleet
their lands from Japanese pirates since the dynasty was was departed from the Japanese headquarter. When
established. Japanese ships were designed for their main Wakisaka's fleet arrived near by Geojedo island, his fleet
tactics, boarding tactics which grapple enemy ship and anchored off Gyeonnaeryang. On the other hand, Joseon's
board on it. For this, Japanese needed fast ships. On the fleet was at Dangpo of Mirukdo island.
contrary, Joseon's main warship, Panokship was made of
sturdy pine wood plate , therefore it was capable of 1⃞ At battle
carrying many guns on it while Japanese ships couldn't On July 7, a shepherd reported that Japanese fleet is
carry any cannons because these were made of Japanese anchoring at Gyeonnaeryang to Joseon fleet. At night,
cedar. This wood has less solidity than pine tree. Koreans commanders of Joseon fleet had council and planned
developed these guns since Choi mu-seon invented strategy. Admiral Yi decided to entice Japanese fleet from
gunpowder and firearms in late 1300. Four different size there to the open sea, because that sea is shallow and it was
guns were developed during 1555~1565, these guns were hard to change body of main warship, Panokseon.
boarded on Joseon's warships. Furthermore, Japanese tended to abandon ships and retreat
Actually, Joseon navy was out of Toyotomi's strategy at to the island if they reach an impasse in the middle of battle.
first place. He ordered his daimyos to prepare many ships, On July 8, 5~6 ships went to Gyeonnaeryang while
mainly transport ships for the invasion of Korea. His remaining ships were poised to attack off Hansando island.
18 His contribution to the world

Watch Tower in Jeseungdang

Jeseungdang building The water in front of Hansando island

Joseon ships attacked ships which were anchoring off coast 1⃞ Result
of Gyeonnaeryang. Immediately, Japanese boarded ships Japanese fleet's casualties were unprecedented. They lost 59
and counterattack to Joseon warships. Joseon warships warships and the list of ships as follow: 28 Big Sekibune
poised to retreat from there, Japanese followed them. ships, 7 Adake ships, 28 middle Sekibune ships and 17small
Sekibune ships. By considering capacity of these ships,
hansandoWhen enticing ships arrived at the open sea, about 3,000 Japanese died after this battle. Joseon lost no
another Joseon fleet joined them. Admiral Yi commanded ship and casualties were insignificant.
to make his famous tactic, Hakikjin, crane wing formation.
Joseon ships formed like crescent moon and surrounded On their way to Spain, Spaniards were suffered from heavy
Japanese ships. This tactic's name derived from a shape of storms and starving. Starving Spaniards landed on Ireland,
crane when it spread its wings. This tactic designed to but they were killed by the army of Elizabeth. The Medina
attack enemy's Adake(flagship) or main squadron first and Sidonia could reach Santander on September 13 after he lost
simultaneously. Joseon fleet discharged guns and 2~3 a half of his fleet and hundreds of sailors.
Japanese warships in front line were sunken by this attack.
Joseon fleet attacked flagship first, it was main tactic of
Admiral Yi. Soon, Japanese fleet was out of their 3. Aftermath
commanders' order and dispersed to retreat, but Joseon
fleet surrounded them and ambush their ships one by one. Joseon enjoyed three advantages as a result of this battle.
Most Japanese ships were sunken before they approached. First, Joseon could keep their control in Jeollado and
This battle ended within 2~3 hours. Chungcheongdo which were breadbasket of Joseon. The
The Battle of Hansando 19

Joseon enjoyed three King seonjo asked aid to the Ming dynasty and Ming sent

advantages as a result their army to prevent invasion of Japanese troops in Korean


peninsula.
of this battle. First,
Joseon could keep After this battle, Admiral Yi's fleet secured south sea till the
their control in end of Imjin war and Joseon could protect their land from
Jeollado and Japanese invasion. On August 18, 1595, Toyotomi

Chungcheongdo which Hideyoshi died, but his councilors kept his death as secret.
After several months, this came to light and Japanese
were breadbasket of
councilors ordered retreat of their troops in Joseon. On
Joseon. The food November 19, 1598, Yi's fleet attacked Japanese fleet was on
supply was kept for their return to mother land, almost 200 Japanese warships
Joseon army and fleet, were sunken and it became Yi's final battle. After few days,

it became huge all Japanese troops withdrew from Busan and the
disastrous Imjin war ended.
advantage and base of
Joseon's victory at The result of this war impacted three countries in East Asia,
Imjin war. Joseon, Ming dynasty and Azuchi-Momoyama period
Japan. Joseon's lands were devastated by 7 years war and a
food supply was kept for Joseon army and fleet, it became lot of national treasures were destroyed or plundered by
huge advantage and base of Joseon's victory at Imjin war. Japanese. Although, it took many years to rebuild country,
Joseon dynasty lasted for about 400 years.
Second, Japanese attempts to defeat Joseon fleet were failed On the contrary of Joseon, Ming dynasty began to
and they had to change war strategy of invasion. Their disintegrate and Toyotomi's government was replaced.
strategy was to deliver more Japanese land forces and foods Ming was suffered from economic decline and rebels
through seas to northern part of Korean peninsula and then against its government, and it was collapsed by Manchus in
they would march to Ming dynasty's territory. By failure of 1644. Manchu established China's last absolute monarchy
this strategy, Japanese troops which seized north provinces state, Cheong.
of Joseon had to suffer from starving and shortage of
ammunition. To invade China, they needed to secure war Toyotomi's successor, Tokugawa Ieyasu moved capital to
supplying routes. Japanese attempts to deliver foods and Edo, present-day Tokyo and Edo period started. Tokugawa
ammunition through roads were also blocked by Joseon proposed reestablishing diplomatic relations with Joseon in
army and Uibyeong. Uibyeong is literally translated as 1607. Two countries exchanged envoy till Meiji Restoration
righteous army. A lot of civil army and Buddhist monk took place. Joseon dispatched diplomatic mission, which
army voluntarily were formed and attacked Japanese called as Tongsinsa. Tongsinsa was consists of about 500
troops. people, including diplomats, painter, potter and doctors.
Japanese could learn Joseon's technology by this diplomatic
Third, the army of Ming dynasty could march down to mission. Especially, Joseon's potters have had a strong
Korean peninsula by road, because Japanese troops influence on Japanese ceramic arts.
couldn't march forward to the territory of Ming dynasty.
20 His contribution to the world

The Battle of Trafalgar


It was a part of the Napoleonic wars. Napoleon longed to expand his empire
to the east and conquer Britain. His ambition was torn by this battle and Admiral Nelson, the
man whose name is immortal. This battle had ended with Britain's victory and Britain
remained unchallenged at Sea for years.

1. Historical Background Napoleonic war ended like this and he returned his
attention to the Britain.
1⃞ Napoleon's ambition
On July 14 1789, about 10,000 Parisians attacked Bastille and In late 1797 Napoleon encouraged and persuaded French
this prison fell under control of angry people. The French to believe that English monarchy should be destroyed by
Revolution took place on this day and absolute monarchy them and then the Europe would be at their feet. He also
replaced by constitutional monarchy. Most European started to concentrate his effort on the navy. But his
countries' royals were afraid if the same revolution invade plans were blockaded by Admiral Nelson and
occurred in their land. Soon, they allied and tried to Royal Navy.
reestablish absolute monarchy in France. In 1792, the war
between French and allied countries' army started. This war In 1802, the treaty of Amiens was signed and two countries
changed a man's life. His name was Bonaparte Napoleon. were in peace for 14 months. Napoleon whose power was
rapidly on the rise conferred upon him the tile of Emperor
His dream was to become a naval officer, but he had to be Napoleon I on 2 December 1804. In this day, Napoleon's
an artillery officer because only noble family could join the ambition to expand his empire rose up. He acquired the
Naval Academy. When he was 20, the French Revolution power to invade England and ships.
took place and he defeated English in 1793 and Austrians in
1795. In 1797, Napoleon could attain Vienna, the capital of 1⃞ Admiral Nelson's endless chase
Austria. The treaty of campo formio was signed on October British speculated the possibility of invasion of France.
17, 1797 and Austrian lands ceded. The first phrase of England could be easily collapsed if French army arrives in
The Battle of Trafalgar 21

British speculated
the possibility of invasion of
France.
England could be easily collapsed
if French army arrives in ports.
Britain knew the importance of
securing the seas, as the history
approved this for them.
Royal Navy had observed the
movement of French ships.
In late 1804, Spain and France
allied and planned the invasion of
Britain.
Spain fleet was given to
Napoleon's hands.
The Battle of Trafalgar by J. M. W. Turner

ports. Britain knew the under their surveillance. They set their attempt to combine
importance of securing the their fleets in Caribbean Sea, because they could reach
seas, as the history approved English Channel only after they tricks British Navy.
this for them. Royal Navy
had observed the movement Admiral Charles Villeneuve's fleet was in Toulon while
of French ships. In late 1804, Admiral Nelson's fleet secured his movement. On March
Spain and France allied and 30, 1805 he escaped port and headed to Atlantic Ocean.
planned the invasion of When Nelson realized Toulon's fleet sailed out of the port,
Britain. Spain fleet was given he assumed that French ships would sail to Mediterranean
to Napoleon's hands. Sea. He drove his fleet to Egypt, but he found his mistake
Napoleon organized army, and chased Villeneuve. Spanish fleet in Cadiz also slipped
Vice Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson
Grand Armee, it includes out of the port and joined Villeneuve's fleet.
2,000 boats and 90,000 men. They stationed along the coast
of France to invade England. Napoleon ordered to his fleets 1⃞ Failure of Napoleon's invasion plan
to blockade the Royal Navy while he would deliver his When Villeneuve arrived in French colony, Martinique, he
newly organized army in England. was reported that fleet in Ferrol couldn't break out of the
port. He knew that Napoleon was waiting for his arrival,
At that time, Napoleon's fleets were dispersed in five therefore he sailed back to Ferrol to drive ships in there out
havens, Brest, Rochefort, Toulon in France and Cadiz and of the port. Villeneuve's fleet was blocked by Vice Admiral
Ferrol in Spain. British Royal Navy was keeping these fleets Sir Robert Calder off the coast of Spain, but he escaped
22 His contribution to the world

from Calder's fleet and arrived in Vigo port which is combined fleet was blocked by Royal Navy, they turned
situated below of Ferrol. around and sailed to the port again.

For five months, Napoleon waited the arrival of his fleet, Villeneuve's fleet was in formation which the ships position
but he was reported that Admiral Villeneuve couldn't a line north-to-south, it was very common battle line,
combine fleet. And the Austria and Russia set their because battleships could discharge guns only when their
attempts to invade France, while the Napoleon had broadsides are heading to their enemy ships.
concentrate on invasion of England. He abandoned the
invasion plan and led his Grand Armee to the Germany. English columns followed the direction of Admiral
He ordered Villeneuve to sail to the Mediterranean to Nelson's plan and cut off the battle line of combined fleet
support French land forces during their campaign against from the west. Nelson knew that the wind changed and it
Austria and Russia. helped British ships to sail fast. Nelson ordered to the first
column to broke in front of Villeneuve's ship, the
Bucentaure and destroy flagships first.
2. The battle
When Nelson turned the bow of the Victory and
1⃞ The Battle has joined discharged guns to Bucentaure, Collingwood broke French
Admiral Villeneuve's fleet left Cadiz to follow Emperor's line further south. His column's mission was to ambush
order on October 18. Nelson arrived near by Cadiz in late Spanish commander's ship and other warships which were
September. He anticipated the movement of French fleet dispersed by Nelson's attack.
and had a council of war with his subordinate captains and While 2 ships of Nelson's column changed course and
Admiral Collingwood. The battle plan was confirmed even attacked ships which were in van of French fleet,
before French fleet leave the port. His tactic was to divide Collingwood's column engaged second line of Spanish
his fleet into several columns and set them headlong, it is fleet. At about 1:15 pm Nelson was hit by a sniper at
known as the Nelson Touch. Redoutable and carried to the cockpit. Weather column
devastated the middle battle line of French fleet and sailed
On October 21, English fleet discovered Villeneuve's fleet at to the north where the 2 ships of weather column was
Trafalgar off coast of Spain. Admiral Nelson immediately under attack of French fleet's vanguard ships. French fleet's
made the signal to divide his fleet into two columns, vanguard ships fled when they discovered the weather
weather and lee. He led weather column while Admiral column's sail to them. Nelson died after his captain,
Collingwood led lee column. When French-Spanish Thomas Hardy reported the victory of his fleet at 4:30pm.

1⃞ Fleet and commanders


Winner: English fleet French-Spanish combined fleet
Commanders • Commander-in-chief : Vice Admiral, • Commander-in chief: Pierre-Charles
Lord Horatio Nelson Vice Admiral : Collingwood Villeneuve(French) Spanish Commander:
Crew • 18,000 men and wemen
• French ships - Total:26(Battleships: 18,
Warships • Total: 32 Battleships : 25 Frigates and smaller ships :
Others: 8) Spanish ships - Battleships:15
The Battle of Trafalgar 23

1⃞ Result
Combined fleet lost many sailors and their 21 ships were
captured by British navy. 2,218 French navy dead and 1,155
Please visit our
were wounded. 1,025 Spanish navy dead and 1,383 were
wounded. 7,000 sailors of combined fleet were captured.
Yi Sun-sin
website!
On the other hand, British lost no ship. 449 British including
Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson dead and 1,246 were
wounded.

3. Aftermath

After this battle, Napoleon decisively defeated allied army of


Austria and Russia and the Austria had to sign Treaty of
Pressburg, which made Austria ceded their land to
Napoleon. Napoleon realized that his fleet could not defeat
the Royal Navy and dismissed his invasion plan of England
as a result of this battle. He chose other scheme to block
English trade and pull down England's economic power. On
November 21, 1806, he announced Continental System,
which made all European countries' trade with England
prohibited. He tried to isolate England from trade with
European countries, but it ironically isolated him and
became a reason which his empire collapsed within years. It
brought many frictions between France and its allies. In 1810,
Russian Empire abrogated this, and Napoleon marched to
the Russia to punish them by his army. But he was decisively
defeated by Russians, and his power rapidly declined.
We, VANK has published this magazine to
Although, French historians deemed this battle was as an help you learn more about the world’s four greatest naval
battles, Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s life and
unfortunate affair, the truth that it halted the Napoleon's
his contribution to the world history and Korean society.
attempts to invade England and became the reason why
Napoleon announced Continental System can't be denied. You can read more articles about the world’s four greatest
naval battles and Admiral Yi Sun-sin from our website at
English celebrated the victory of this battle during English http://yisunsin.prkorea.com.
Empire era. This continued till today. The Royal Navy held Please visit our website and leave your comments
about this website and contents.
series of ceremonies, such as the International Fleet Review,
Son et Lumiere, International Drumhead ceremony to
celebrate the bicentennial anniversary of this battle in 2005.
24 His contribution to the world

The
known as Bunroku Geichono yaku ( ) in
、 (

、 、 Woluan
Japan and Renchen ) in China.
In 1392, Korean medieval state, Joseon
dynasty established in Korean peninsula and

Imjin war
they kept diplomatic relationship with Japan.
Two countries exchanged envoy visits for 200
years and enjoyed peace. The circumstance
changed shortly after Toyotomi Hideyoshi
succeeded his former lord, Oda Nobunaga.
After unification, Toyotomi thought the
chance to invade China had come to him. His
ambition was to be the first Japanese ruler
who conquered China. Furthermore, he
worried about the possibility that his
subordinate daimyos would rebel against him.

According to Jingbirok, Memory of disastrous


war, Joseon government speculated the
possibility of Japanese invasion and prepared
for the war since two envoys came back from
Japan in 1590. They appointed three provincial
governors and dispatched them in southern
provinces of Korean peninsula. The governors
prepared armory and built castles. Especially,
many castles were built or rebuilt in
Gyeongsangdo during this time. New
barracks were also built in this province.

To settle defense plans, Joseon government


appointed new naval commanders of
Busanjin-sunjeoldo(Painting of Busanjin Castle Battle in 1592) southern provinces' fleet. In February 1591, Yi
Sun-sin was appointed as Jeollajwado

I
mjin war broke out when Battle-trained Sugunjeoldosa, commander-in-chief Jeolla
Japanese under control of Toyotomi province's western fleet and Yi Eok-gi was
Hideyoshi invaded Korean medieval appointed as Jellawudo Sugunjeoldosa,
state, Joseon dynasty from 1592 to 1598. This commander-in-chief Jeolla province's eastern
war is called Imjinwaeran in Korea, though fleet. In early 1592, Won gyun was appointed
the first invasion is known as Imjinwaeran as commander-in-chief Gyeongsangdo
and second invasion as Jeongyujaeran. This is province's eastern fleet. These commanders
The Imjin war 25

prepared for the war in their local seas. fleet was consists of well-trained navy and
Jeollado province' commander, Yi Sun-sin sailors and Joseon warships were well
perfectly prepared to defend his domain sea. equipped with medium-and long- range guns.
A lot of amount of armory, ammunition, gun Furthermore, they had outstanding
powder, foods were reserved under control of commander, Admiral Yi.
him. New warships, including 3 Geobukseon
were also built. After Admiral Yi's fleet decisively defeated
Japanese in the Battle of Hansando on July 8,
On April 13, 1592 the Imjin war broke out. Japanese had to change their war strategy.
Japanese army arrived at Korean peninsula. Their strategy was to deliver more Japanese
Japanese invaded Joseon dynasty. Battle- land forces and foods through seas to
hardened Japanese army defeated Joseon's northern part of Korean peninsula and then
armies by matchlock at every battle. Joseon they would march to Ming dynasty's
army also used firearms, but they mainly territory. By failure of this strategy, Japanese
fought Japanese soldiers hand to hand by troops which seized north provinces of Joseon
sword, knife and bow. had to suffer from starving and shortage of
supplies. To invade China, they needed to
When King Seonjo was told the invasion of secure war supplying routes. Japanese tried to
numerous Japanese army and Koreans' deliver Japanese land forces and foods
defeats, he dispatched his most trusted through roads, but this was blocked by
general, Sin Rip to defend Japanese invasion. Uibyeong. Uibyeong is literally translated as
General Sin Rip was famous for his campaigns righteous army. A lot of civil army and According
against Manchu in the northern border of Buddhist monk army voluntarily were to Jingbirok,
Joseon dynasty. General, Sin Rip confronted formed and attacked Japanese troops. Memory of
Gonishi Yukinaga's army, which led the van at disastrous
the Tanguemdae, Chungju, but his cavalry Reinforced Joseon army also blocked the war, Joseon
could not defeat Japanese. No one could halt march of Japanese. In October, 1592, General government
the Japanese army's march to the Hanyang, Kim Si-min triumphed over 20,000 Japanese at speculated
capital of Joseon dynasty after this battle. On the battle of Jinju. General Gwon-yul also the
April 30, King Seonjo retreated to Northwest, triumphed at the battle of Haengju. Sine the possibility of
and Japanese seized Hanyang after 2 days. end of 1592, Ming dynasty's Army started to Japanese
Japanese marched to the north and reached participate in the imjin war. Combined army invasion and
the northernmost boarder of Joseon dynasty in of Ming and Joseon retook the Pyongyang prepared for
June. Therefore, King Seonjo asked aids to the castle that was seized by Japanese. the war
Ming dynasty. since two
Japanese was defeated by Joseon navy, envoys
The situation at sea was obviously different. reinforced and combined Ming-Joseon army. came back
Combined Joseon fleet defeated Japanese navy In 1593, Japanese asked for a truce, but this from Japan
continuously. They could win because Joseon couldn't last forever. Japanese invaded joseon in 1590.
26 His contribution to the world

again in 1597. Admiral Yi's fleet secured troops withdrew from Busan and the
south sea till the end of Imjin war and disastrous Imjin war ended.
Joseon could protect their land from In 1593, Japanese asked for a truce, because
Japanese invasion. On August 18, 1598, they reached the impasse. Although Joseon
Toyotomi Hideyoshi died, but his government opposed to truce with
councilors kept his death as secret. After Japanese, Ming government had truce
several months, this came to light and negotiations with Toyotomi Hideyoshi

Japanese councilors ordered retreat of their government. But, they couldn't reach an
troops in Joseon. On November 19, 1598, agreement. In January 14, 1597, Japanese
Yi's fleet attacked Japanese fleet was on reinforced the army and invaded Joseon
their return to mother land, almost 200 again.
Japanese warships were sunken and it
became Yi's final battle, the Battle of At that time, King Seonjo deprived of
Noyrang. After few days, all Japanese Admiral Yi's rank as Commander-in-Chief,
The Imjin war 27

because he became entangled in domestic and Japanese councilors ordered retreat of


The result of
political strife. King seonjo appointed Won their troops in Joseon. On November 19, 1598,
this war
gyun instead of Admiral Yi. Won gyun's Admiral Yi's fleet attacked Japanese fleet was
impacted
Joseon navy decisively was defeated over on their return to mother land, almost 200
three
Japanese at the battle of Chilcheonryang in Japanese warships were sunken and it became
countries in
July and Won gyun died after this battle. Yi's final battle, the Battle of Noyrang. After
East Asia,
After defeat of Won gyun's Joseon navy, few days, all Japanese troops withdrew from
Joseon
Japanese attacked Jeollado province and Busan and the disastrous Imjin war ended.
dynasty,
seized Nawon castle in August and King
Ming dynasty
Seonjo reappointed Yi Sun-sin as The result of this war impacted three countries
and Azuchi-
Commander-in-Chief. Admiral Yi prepared in East Asia, Joseon dynasty, Ming dynasty
Momoyama
battle against Japanese navy after he took and Azuchi-Momoyama period Japan.
period
over the 12 battleships which a naval officer, Joseon's lands were devastated by 7 years war
Japan.
Bae-seo retreated with him in the middle of and a lot of national treasures were destroyed
Joseon's
battle of Chilcheonryang. Although the King, or plundered by Japanese. Although, it took
lands were
seonjo ordered to combine Admiral Yi's navy many years to rebuild country, Joseon dynasty
devastated
with army, Admiral Yi sent report to king. In lasted for over 300 years.
by 7 years
this report he wrote his famous quote, "Your
war and a lot
highness, I still have twelve battleships". On the contrary of Joseon, Ming dynasty
of national
Admiral Yi continuously moved naval base began to disintegrate and Toyotomi's
treasures
to the west and west to find the best place to government was replaced. Ming was suffered
were
defeat Japanese again. from economic decline and rebels against its
destroyed or
government, and it was collapsed by Manchus
plundered by
On September 16, 1598, Admiral Yi confronted in 1644. Manchu established China's last
Japanese.
Japanese fleet in front of naval base, present- absolute monarchy state, Cheong.
Although, it
day Haenamgun. He stationed in this sea,
took many
because he knew Japanese warships had to Toyotomi's successor, Tokugawa Ieyasu
years to
sail into the Uldolmok, sea between Jindo and moved capital to Edo, present-day Tokyo and
rebuild
hwawon peninsula, it is narrow sea which Edo period started. Tokugawa proposed
country,
lowest sea level is about 1.9m and flow speed reestablishing diplomatic relations with
Joseon
is 11.5 note. Although Admiral Yi's fleet was Joseon in 1607. Two countries exchanged
dynasty
consist of only 13 warships, he defeated 133 envoy till Meiji Restoration took place. Joseon
lasted for
Japanese warships which passed Uldolmok at dispatched diplomatic mission, which called
over 300
the battle of Myeongryang. By victory at this as Tongsinsa. Tongsinsa was consists of about
years.
battle, the situation reversed dramatically. 500 people, including diplomats, painter,
potter and doctors. Japanese could learn
On August 18, 1598, Toyotomi Hideyoshi Joseon's technology by this diplomatic
died, but his councilors kept his death as mission. Especially, Joseon's potters have had
secret. After several months, this came to light a strong influence on Japanese ceramic arts.
28 His contribution to the world

International
Reputation of
Yi Sun-sin
eastward toward home. So euded, we
History of War College in Japan in
may well believe, one of the great
Korea, 1908)
naval battles of the world. It may truly
Homer B.Hulbert
be called the Salamis of Korea. It
Throughout history, there have been
signed the death-warrant of the
But soon a several generals who revealed
invasion. It frustrated the great motive
reinforcing fleet outstanding tactics. For naval
of the invasion, the humbling of china;
came up from generals, we cannot go without
and thenceforth, although the war
An-gol Harbur Korea's Yi Sun-sin in the East and
dragged through many a long year, it
near Han-san Britain's Horatio Nelson (1758-1805) in
was carried on solely with a view to
and the Admiral the West. Unfortunately, Yi was
mitigating the disappointment of
found that his unknown in the West because he was
Hideyoshi-a disappointment that
day's work was not yet done. The born in Korea, yet the literature of the
must have been as keen as his thirst
attack straightway began and soon the Seven-Year War proved that he was a
for conquest was unquenchable.
Japanese were in the same plight in truly brilliant admiral. To find naval
which their comrades had been put. generals that are a match for Yi from
Many, seeing how impossible it was the West, they should be at least better
to make headway against this iron Sato Tetsutaro than Dutch Admiral Michiel
ship, beached their boats and fled by (Vice-admiral of the Adriaanszoon De Ruyter (1607-1676).
land; so on that same day forty-eight Imperial Japanese Navy, Someone like Lord Nelson in no way
ships more were burned. The few that also served as an can reach the level of Yi in terms of
escaped during the fight sped instructor in the Naval character. Admiral Yi Sun-sin is
International Reputation of Yi Sun-sin 29

honored as an unparalleled naval chance to serve a country, he should might be summarized by saying that,
commander, who has no rival be loyal until death. Otherwise, it will although he had no lessons from past
anywhere in the world in all aspects, be enough to live in the fields as a history to serve as a guide, he waged
including his great character, farmer. If I pursue honor by flattering war on the sea as it should be waged if
outstanding strategies, creative people in power, it will be a it is to produce definite results, and
genius, and distinguished diplomatic tremendous shame." These words ended by making the supreme
ability. (Excerpt from 'A Military show more than enough to prove his sacrifice of a defender of his country.
History of the Empire'; a textbook noble character. (Excerpt from 'the (The Influence of the Sea on The
written and used in classes by General unparallel naval commander Yi Sun- Political History of Japan, pp. 66-67.)
Sato Tetsutaro) sin', Local Administration of Joseon,
Vol. 6, February 1926)
As a naval commander, I have Wakizaka Yasuharu
admired Dutch Admiral Michiel (General of the
Adriaanszoon De Ruyter and Korean Ballard, G. A. Japanese Army,
Admiral Yi Sun-sin all my life. If you (George Alexander), who took part in the
ask me to decide priority, I would 1862-1948 The Imjin War)
have no hesitation in recommending influence of the sea on
Yi first. Although Lord Nelson is an the political history of Yi Sun-sin is the person who I am
internationally renowned general, he Japan (1921) afraid of the most, hate the most, love
is in no way a match for Yi in terms of the most, admire and respect the
his character and creativity ... Admiral It is always most, wish to kill the most, and want
de Ruyter is comparable to Yi in difficult for to have tea together the most.
aspects of character, ability and Englishmen to
military career, but seems to rank admit that
below Yi in creativity. Admiral Yi was Nelson ever had Tokotomi Teiichiro
a great commander, who frustrated an equal in his (Prominent Japanese
the ambition of Toyotomi Hideyoshi profession, but if historian, the author of
and proved the importance of any man is entitled to be so regarded, History of Modern
controlling territorial waters in it should be this great naval Japan)
national defense. At the same time, he commander of Asiatic race who never
submitted himself without resentment knew defeat and died in the presence The death of Yi Sun-sin is similar to
to the humiliation of serving in war as of the enemy; of whose movements a that of Horatio Nelson. He died after
a commoner due to false accusations track-chart might be compiled from victory, and won after his death (from
by his superiors, which clearly the wrecks of hundreds of Japanese the book titled the War in Korea,
showed his noble character. He was ships lying with their valiant crews at written by Tokotomi Teiichiro) He [Yi
an exemplary general who was firm the bottom of the sea, off the coasts of Sun-sin] died after victory, and won
and strict in enforcing military the Korean peninsula... and it seems, after his death. For the seven years of
discipline, but loved his soldiers just in truth, no exaggeration to assert that Japan's war in Korea there had been
as his own children. He always put in from first to last he never made a many tacticians, speakers and writers,
his best effort in his duty and did not mistake, for his work was so complete but there was only one hero in battle
act depending on his mood. He often under each variety of circumstances as to be greatly honored. While he was
said, "If born as a man and given a to defy criticism... His whole career alive, Japanese naval generals always
30 His contribution to the world

flinched in fear. He was truly the and bravery. He was already a


Kawada Isao
greatest hero during the Seven-Year renowned commander before British
(Japanese researcher
War, not only of Korea, but of all three Admiral Horatio Nelson, and nobody
of naval tactics in the
Eastern countries, including China is comparable to Yi in world history.
1920s)
and Japan.
The existence of Yi will never be
It is true that Japanese Admiral Togo
forgotten in Korea, but also his
Heihachiro had a record of
Chen Lin accomplishments and tactics should
distinguished war service, but
(General of the Ming be studied even in Japan because
compared to Korean Admiral Yi Sun-
Chinese Navy) respect for him influenced generations
sin, Togo was far behind. If Yi was
of Japanese and led to the
given as much national support,
Yi Sun-sin has not only the ability to establishment of the Japanese Navy
abundant weapons and battleships as
govern the whole world, but also the during the Meiji Restoration.
Lord Nelson, Japan would have been
merits of having straightened out a
defeated in a day. I know it would be
country.
very rude, but I have to say that
Aoyanigi (Historian, Koreans hold him in high esteem, yet
the author of the Great they know less about how truly great
Togo Heihachiro Compendium of the he was than us Japanese (from the
(Admiral of the Imperial Yi-Dynasty) book titled Penetrating into the shells,
Japanese Navy) written by Kawada Isao)
Japanese generals, including Konishi
You may Yukinaga and Shimazu Yoshihiro,
compare me continued fighting without knowing
with Lord of the death of Yi Sun-sin, and
Nelson, but not eventually retreated in defeat. It is not
with Yi Sun-sin. different from a past event in China
Next to him, I where the dead Zhuge Liang routed
am only a petty the living Sima Yi. After the battle,
officer (Quotes from General Togo Ming Chinese General Chen Lin
Heihachiro in his victory celebration) finally got to know of Yi Sun-sin's
death, threw himself down on his ship
tree times, and cried out, "there is
Shiba Ryotaro nobody like him in all eras!" Yi Sun-
(Popular historical sin was a patriot who laid down his
novelist in Japan) life for his country.
The Yi-Dynasty of Korea at the time
Yi Sun-sin ... was a man of integrity. began declining and 300 years later
He was an ideal soldier whose was annexed to Japan. However, the
existence itself seems to be a miracle fair name of the great hero Yi Sun-sin
with such leadership, tactics, loyalty will be immortalized in history.
The Battle of Salamis 31

Chapter 2
His contribution
to Korea
- Inspire Korean
- Domestic Reputation
32 His contribution to Korea

Han
Yi Sun-sin,
the Man to Inspire
sik
Koreans in the
(Korean Food)

21st Century
The Great Admiral Yi Sun-sin is the man to inspire Koreans
in the 21st century. If a foreigner was to come to Korea and ask
any Korean on the street,
"Who is your greatest hero in Korean history,"
one out of three would answer "Admiral Yi Sun-sin."
He has been loved by men
and women of all ages for many years in Korea.
Few historical figures remain as influential in the life of Koreans today as Yi.
How does he exist in the mind of Koreans today?
Let me show you the different appearances of Yi that are integrated into
Korean society.
Inspire Korean 33

Yi Sun-sin, the Everlasting Leader


of the Korean People
discharge from the military service, and
sing a martial song. A discharge
ceremony is a ritual where soldiers
make their final report to their
superiors, after finishing their national
defense duty. Present-day soldiers from
throughout the country come to
Gwanghwamun to give their discharge
report to the statue of a person who
died 500 years ago. Also, on the
birthday of Yi Sun-sin many people
from the government, private
companies, and voluntary communities
gather to clean the statue. Every year
Discharge ceremony for Korean marines in Ceremony of washing te Yi Sun-sin statue this scene draws the attention of the
front of the Yi Sun-sin statue
media and becomes the talk of the
A Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin stands conducts state affairs, Yi stands as if he country. It is not too much to say that
at the Gwanghwamun Intersection on is still protecting the country. Every Koreans continue to be united under
Sejongno Boulevard in downtown year there appears a strange scene in Yi's leadership, even after so many
Seoul. On the way to the Blue House front of the statue. Marines, known as years.
where the Korean president resides and Korea's elite troops, report to Yi on their

Yi Sun-sin, the Most Respected


Person in Korea of all time
Admiral Yi Sun-sin has been and various areas of politics, business, Yi was ranked as the second most
continues to be one of the most culture and civil society, including respected person with 24.5 %, after
respected people among Koreans of all government officials, corporate CEOs, King Sejong with 28.2%. Yi is not just
ages and both genders. The weekly legal professionals, and journalists, the hero of influential opinion leaders.
newsmagazine 'Sisa Journal' conducted about the most honorable people that Yi also came in third place in a 2001
a 2007 survey of 1,000 leaders from inspire Korea. survey by the popular Korean
34 His contribution to Korea

broadcasting company SBS of the most ranked in fourth place when the the most read biography among
respected people in Korean history monthly newsmagazine 'Monthly children in a 1982 survey conducted by
among 4,500 average adults. Yi once Chosun' asked 15,000 Internet users for the Samsung Life Insurance Company.
again took third place in a survey by a month in January of 2002 for their Over twenty years later, the list of
the Korean news agency 'Yonhap opinions of the best Koreans. respected men has changed with time,
News' of the most respected people in yet biographies of Yi remain on
Korean history among 1,500 adults Above all, Admiral Yi has continued to bestseller lists among children and
over the age of 20. He is also one of the live in the hearts of Koreans across youth.
front-runners in online polls. He time. The biography of Yi Sun-sin was

Yi Sun-sin, Role model of high-ranking


officials and corporate CEOs
In January of 2008, a TV commercial in the 1500s ... Korea's shipbuilding beginning in the war-battered country
was launched nationwide about Chung technology is 300 years ahead of after the Korean War, became number
Ju-Yung, the deceased founder of Britain's." This argument persuaded one in the world.
Hyundai Group, growing his business Mr. Longbottom and he lent money to
into a global company. In 1970 he flew Chung Ju-Yung to build ships. This Chung is not the only successful
to London to find investors interested story about the Geobukseon was the Korean inspired by Yi. Many Korean
in helping him enter the shipbuilding seed of a miracle 30 years later, in CEOs find the courage to overcome
industry. Initially, he had a difficult which Korea's shipbuilding industry, their own challenges by reading Yi's
time attracting investors. On his last
chance to secure an investor, he met
with Charles Brooke Longbottom, the
President of A&P Appledore
Shipbuilders. However, President
Longbottom refused any investment
outright, saying that Korea had no
financial ability to pay back money that
was invested. Chung didn't give up
and took a 500 won bill out of his
pocket. He showed Longbottom the
side of the bill that has a picture of the
Geobukseon battleship printed on it
and said "Koreans are the people who
invented this unique ship called the
Geobukseon and defeated the Japanese
Inspire Korean 35

stories about defeating Japanese forces 1990s. He also wrote a book titled industry number one in the world.
under overwhelmingly disadvantaged "Geobukseon-style Agriculture" to offer Also, KTF, Korea's leading
conditions. Jeong Un-Cheon, appointed suggestions on how to utilize Yi's spirit telecommunications company, teaches
the Minister for Agriculture, Forestry, in the management of agriculture in the its high-ranking executives about Yi's
Fisheries and Food in February of 2008, 21st century, causing a sensation dauntless venture spirit. Additionally,
is a well-known CEO who admires Yi among aspiring entrepreneurs. Finally, the valuable characteristics of Yi's spirit
Sun-sin. He took Yi's saying "Those Jeong was brought into the government have been taught in many business
who seek death shall live. Those who to lead the ministry. He now has the management seminars for prospective
seek life shall die" as his motto. He said great responsibility of managing CEOs to help them learn how to win a
that he learned important lessons about Korea's 21st century agricultural competition with a relatively poor
the entrepreneurial spirit from Yi Sun- policies under the rapidly changing resource base, especially when
sin, such as Yi's creation of unique environment of the Korea-U.S. Free compared to China and Japan. There
value through the innovative Trade Agreement (FTA). are even universities that offer Yi Sun-
management of personnel and battle sin leadership courses to help build
strategies when Japan, with enormous Similarly, President Hwang Chang- courage and confidence in students
human and financial resources, Gyu of Samsung Electronics, a who are seeking jobs. In Korea, Yi's
invaded Korea during the Imjin War. worldwide semiconductor company, leadership serves as a lighthouse to
Jeong used the same wisdom and has Yi's saying "Those who seek death guide businessmen and university
unyielding willpower of Yi to shall live. Those who seek life shall die" students in finding their way into the
overcome the economic crisis Korea as his motto. With this saying as his future.
faced in the aftermath of the opening of business philosophy, he succeeded in
the Korean agricultural market in the making Korea's semiconductor

Yi Sun-sin, the Legendary


Hero in novels, dramas
and movies
movies and commercials. 'The Song of The author of the book said that he
the Sword', a novel about Yi written by wished to suggest moral principles for
Kim Hun, had sold over one million leaders who are in positions of
copies by December of 2007. This novel responsibility in history, and life
portrays Yi's agony as a human being philosophies for common individuals.
during the Imjin War. It won the Dong- This novel succeeded in moving
Novel, The Song of the Sword(2001)
In Literary Award, a prestigious award Koreans to think of Yi's agony and
in the Korean literary world, in 2001, solutions in their own time of ordeal.
Admiral Yi Sun-sin has been brought
and was translated and distributed to Former Korean President Roh Moo-
back to life in numerous books, dramas,
other Asian and European countries. Hyun (reigned 2003-2008) referred to
36 His contribution to Korea

biographies of Yi as books that he often


read when encountering his own
political hardships, generating more
public interest in Yi's biography.

The most decisive event to revive


interest in Yi in the 21st century was the
production of the drama, 'The Immortal
Yi Sun-sin', which was broadcast in
2005 by KBS, Korea's state-run
broadcasting company. This drama
was based on the novel 'The Song of the
Sword'. The drama registered a solid 30
percent rating, successfully appealing
to the audience by showing his agony
Snapshot of the drama 'The Immortal Yi Sun-sin'(2004)
and frustration over obstacles and
challenges as a human being, rather
than just his heroic accomplishments
that had been the focus of previous
Admiral Yi Sun-sin has been brought back to
dramas about Yi. Additionally, anti-
life in numerous books, dramas, movies and
Japanese sentiment was rising due to
commercials. 'The Song of the Sword', a novel
Japan's claim to the Dokdo Islet, the
about Yi written by Kim Hun, had sold over
continued distortion of history in
one million copies by December of 2007. This
Japanese textbooks, and series of
novel portrays Yi's agony as a human being
inflammatory remarks by high-profile
during the Imjin War.
Japanese right-wing politicians.
Koreans watching the drama derived vicarious satisfaction from Yi's victories is about South and North Korean
over the Japanese in at least 23 battles. soldiers who accidentally go back in
The success of the drama made the time and help a 28 year old Yi Sun-sin
unknown actor Kim Myeong-Min who to protect Korea. The magazine quoted
played Yi in the drama a national star, the movie poster which read,
and the small town of Buan where the "Superman, Batman, get out of the way!
drama was located became a popular General Yi Sun-sin will save us," and
tourist destination. detailed its story about a combined
force of South and North Koreans
A movie about Yi was soon produced, going back to the 16th century and
spurred by the popularity of the novel meeting Korea's greatest hero, Yi Sun-
and the drama. In July of 2005, the UK sin. In many instances Admiral Yi has
magazine 'The Times' introduced the been resurrected in the life of Koreans
movie 'Heaven's Soldiers' about Yi and much like the title of the drama 'The
contemporary South and North Immortal Yi Sun-sin, through a
Poster of the movie 'Heaven's Soldiers'(2005)
Koreans working together. The movie bestselling novel, a beloved national
Inspire Korean 37

Admiral Yi Sun-sin,
Reborn as the Name of a
Korean Battleship
to signify that the named ships are the aspire to protect Korean seas in the 21st
most formidable battleships of the century by following the path laid by Yi
country. Korea is no exception. The 500 years ago. The Korea Naval
Korean Navy uses the name of Korea's Academy has taught its cadets about
greatest naval hero Admiral Yi Sun-sin Yi's spirit and leadership as a primary
for one of its destroyers, ships known course, and has established a museum
as the fortresses of the sea. For the with the documentary records and
name of a battleship, no one has a relics of Yi in order to inform the
imageBattleships are commonly named greater reputation among Korean general public about Yi's life and
after a King, President, or war heroes in historical figures and national heroes accomplishments.
most countries such as the US and the than Yi. Also, Yi is still alive in the
UK. This practice is a widespread way hearts of Korean Navy cadets who

Nationwide
Yi Sun-sin Festivals
Many festivals have been held and the Chenggyecheon Stream. Many
throughout Korea, in Seoul, Seoul citizens gather at these events to
Chungcheong-do, Jeolla-do, and share in the pride of living in the place
Gyeongsang-do, all to commemorate of Yi's birth.
Admiral Yi Sun-sin. First, the Korean
capital of Seoul, where Yi was born, is In the city of Asan in the
promoting an ambitious project to Chungcheongnam-do province, the
The Yi Sun-sin festival in seoul
restore Yi's birth house, a memorial Great Admiral Yi Sun-sin Festival is
hall, a museum, and the held every year. Designated as a
Chungmugong shrine cultural tourism festival by the Korean events include an essay contest for
(*Chungmugong: Yi's posthumous government, this annual festival had its children, archery, horseback riding, and
title). It also holds events that float a 46th year in 2007. Various events are experience in military barracks. The
smaller sized model of the Geobukseon scheduled to provide visitors with a Hyeonchungsa Shrine, built to honor
battleship on both the Hangang River chance to experience Yi's life. Such Yi's accomplishments, is also in this
38 His contribution to Korea

city. It displays many relics of Yi, Many festivals have been held throughout Korea,
including Yi's war diary during the in Seoul, Chungcheong-do, Jeolla-do, and
Imjin War called 'Nanjung Ilgi' Gyeongsang-do, all to commemorate Admiral Yi
(National Treasure No. 76). Over one Sun-sin. First, the Korean capital of Seoul, where
million Koreans visit this shrine every Yi was born, is promoting an ambitious project to
year to learn about Yi's heroic life. restore Yi's birth house, a memorial hall, a
museum, and the Chungmugong shrine
The city of Yeosu in the Jeollanam-do (*Chungmugong: Yi's posthumous title).
province has held the Yeosu
Geobukseon Festival, also known as the 13 ships. In Haenam, the Usuyong Victory of Noryang Festival in
Jinnamje Memorial Festival, for the last Tourist Resort was established to Namhae, and the Gunhang Festival in
40 years. Yeosu is well known as the commemorate Yi. The resort covers an Jinhae. The Gunhang Festival, held
place where the Geobukseon battleship area of about 200,000 square meters and annually to acknowledge Yi's
was constructed under the command of encompasses an exhibition hall of the patriotism, is growing as a nationally
Yi. To celebrate this accomplishment, victory in Myeongnyang, a statue of Yi, popular festival. About two hundred
Yeosu citizens promote Yi's life and the and a monument inscribed with Yi's thousand visitors come to Jinhae
Geobukseon with many Geobukseon- sayings. during the 10 days of the festival. Many
related things to see for visitors. Also, different parts of Korea hold various
the small town of Haenam in the same The Gyeongsangnam-do province festivals to commemorate Admiral Yi
province holds the Great battle of holds several festivals, including the Sun-sin's naval victories,
Myeongnyang Festival to pay tribute to Great Battle of Hansan Festival in accomplishments, and his birth.
the naval triumph in the Myeongnyang Tongyeong, the Great Battle of Through these cultural festivals, Yi's
Strait, where Admiral Yi defeated 133 Danghangpo Festival in Goseong, the spirit is instilled into the life of present-
Japanese ships with only a small fleet of Okpo Sea Battle Festival in Geoje, the day Korea.

Admiral Yi Sun-sin, the Immortal


Hero of every Korean
Admiral Yi Sun-sin protected Korea naval commanders, never defeated in Koreans. Even today, 500 years after his
against the invading forces of Japan by at least 23 battles under his command, death, Koreans everywhere still cherish
achieving tremendous victories during but more importantly, because he his spirit, his statements, his brave
the Imjin War, despite a lack of military devotedly loved the people and the accomplishments and the history he
personnel, warships, weapons, and community to which he belonged, and created. He guides Koreans to look to
government support. However, this is served them even at the cost of his own their future with bravery and a love for
not the only reason why Koreans still life. He showed the true spirit of people. Admiral Yi Sun-sin, he was, is,
remember him as their national hero. transcending the fear of death to work and always will be the Immortal Hero
Koreans keep him in their heart not for the people. His noble life provides a of all Koreans.
because he is one of the world's greatest moral compass for the lives of today's
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Domestic • • •Reputation
• • • 39 • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •






• • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • •
Domestic Reputation of • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •


• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •









• • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • •
Yi Sun-sin
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •



• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • Yi • Sik • •(1584-1647,
• • • • • • • •King • •Seonjo• • (1552-
• • • • • farmer. • • If•I pursue
• •honor• by • flattering
• • • • •
• • • • renowned
• • • • scholar • • •under • • • •1608;
• •reigned• • •1567-1608)
• • • • • people • •in•power, • it•will• be•a • • • • •
• • • • King
• • Injo,• •served• • •as •a • • •I turned
• •my•back• on•you,• but• you• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
tremendous shame." •
• • • • high-ranked
• • • • •academician • • • • • •didn't
• turn
• your
• •back• on•me.• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • [Daejehak],
• • • • •inspector- • • • • • •Although
• • I •finally• awarded
• • •you•as the • • • King • • Jeongjo
• • • (1752- • • • • • •
• • • • general
• • • [Daesaheon]
• • • • •and • • •first-rank
• • meritorious
• • • subject,
• • this• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
1800; reigned 1776-1800) •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
minister [Panseo in • • • • • • • • • • • The
reward is not enough for your • • • • • • • • • • •
foundation stone for my ancestors

• • • • Korean])
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • power • •of •Chungmugong
• • • (Yi's • • • • • •
contributions. to recover our country was only the

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • posthumous • • • title),• •that•was• it.•Who• • • •


• • • • Ingenerals
•our•history,
• •there • have
• •been•many• • •1720;
• •reigned• • •1674-1720)
King Sukjong (1661-
• • • • • else • would
• •I compose
• • •an epitaph
• • for,• • • •
• • • • in•ordinary
• • times • •and•gained • a• • • •I've•heard
• of•the•phrase
• •'dying
• for
• • • besides
• • a •special
• one
• for
• • • • • • •
who defeated small enemies

• • • • reputation,
• • • but•nobody • • among• •them• • •loyalty',
• •but•the•first•person
• •I learned
• • • Chungmugong?
• • • • He • is•the• • • • • •
• • • • can• match
• •Yi •Sun-sin.• •While • the• • • •of who
• •actually
• •sacrificed
• • his•own • life• • combination
• • • of• Li•Sheng, • who• • • • • •
• • • • country
• • was • weakened
• • • and• trying • •to • •and•saved• a•country
• •was•Yi•Sun-sin.
• • • • • • • • • • the• Tang
stabilized the nation during • • • •
• • • • avoid
• •war,•Yi•Sun-sin• •defeated
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Dynasty, and Zhuge Liang, who •
• • • • formidable
• • • enemies• • in•all •his battles
• • • • •Choe • •Yu-hae• • •(1587- • • • • recovered
• • •the•royal• family
• •during• •the • • •
• • • • and• cut
• off•ways• of• passing
• • the• • • •1641,
• •royal • •secretary
• • • • • • Han • Dynasty.
• • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • •and•thereby
western sea of Korea, • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
[Seungji in Korean] under •
• • • • • • • • • • • •trying
prevented enemies who were • to• •King• •Injo, • also
• • the • author
• • • • 1607, • Yu• Seong-ryong
• • • • • • • • •
(1542-

• • • • attack
• •from • the• sea•and• land.
• His
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • prime • • minister
• • • •during • • the • • • •
of Haengjang, biography Younguijeong,
• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
victories ware the foundation for
• • • • • • • • • • • Imjin
of Yi Sun-sin) • • war • •period)
• • • • • • • •
• • • • recovering
• • •our•country. • • Additionally,
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Yi•Sun-sin
Yi Sun-sin was strict, serious and
• •was•like•a solemn
• • scholar,
• • • • •
• • • • renowned
• • •generals• • of•the •past•who• •
there is nobody, even among the
•behaved
• •modestly
• • to•scholars,
• • had • • • who
dignified. But he also loved others and
• didn't
• •speak • •or smile
• •much. • He• • • •
• • • • have
• •been•celebrated
• • as• the• few• great
• • •gratitude,
• • faith • •and•generosity,
• • and • • • had • many
• •abilities
• •and•the•potential
• • • • •
• • • • heroes
• •to•appear • in• a century,
• • •that•can• •always
• •tried•not•to show
• •his• • • • contribution
• • • of•his•abilities
• •was• • • • •
• • • • excel
• •Yi in•his•aspects
• •of unyielding
• • • • •happiness
• • or•anger. • •He •had•said,•"If• • limited
• • only• by• his•short
• life
• • • • • •
• • • • integrity,
• • •loyalty • to•willingly
• • lay • down
• • •born•as•a man • and
• given
• •a chance
• • to• • - Yu • Seong-ryong
• • • •(1542-1607,
• • • • • • •
• • • • his• own
• life• in•national
• •crisis,
• ability
• • in• •serve• a •country,
• •he should
• • be• loyal
• • • Younguijeong,
• • • •prime • •minister
• •during
• • • •
• • • • managing
• • •soldiers,
• • and• wisdom
• • for• • •until•death.
• •Otherwise,
• • •it will• be• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
the Imjin war period) •
• • • • dealing
• • with • complex
• • •affairs. • • • • •enough
• •to live• in•the•fields
• as• a • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Chapter 3
Who is he?
- Timeline
- Life
- Keywords
- Quotes and Poems
- Historical Sites
- People
- Major Battles
- Arsenal
42 Who is he?

Timeline of Admiral
Yi Sun-sin's Life and the Imjin War

Year Age Yi Sun-sin's Life Imjin war

1545 1 ■ Born in Geoncheon-dong (present-day Inhyeon-


dong), Seoul on March 8

1572 28 ■ Applied for a military officer examination


(Byeolgwa❹) in August hosted by the military
training command (Hullyeonwon❹), but failed to
pass the examination.
❹ Byeolgwa: Examinations held on special
occasions, besides the regular state examinations
to hire officials.
❹ Hullyeonwon: Office in charge of selecting,
educating and training soldiers during the Joseon
Dynasty.

1576 32 ■ Passed a military officer examination


(Singnyeonmugwa❹) in February and placed in
the third rank group (Byeonggwa❹)
❹ Singnyeonmugwa: Examination held every
three years to hire military officers. Successful
candidates were divided into three groups,
Gapgwa, Eulgwa, and Byeonggwa, depending
on their rank in the examination.

1580 36 ■ Appointed naval officer titled Manho❹ in Balpo


in July; the beginning of his career in the navy
❹ Manho: Government post as a military naval
officer that belonged to the 8th ranking ('Jong
4-pum') out of a total of 18 in the government
hierarchy during the Joseon Dynasty, which is
similar to the rank of commander in the present

1582 38 ■ Dismissed from the post of Manho in January,


trapped in the false accusation of inspector Seo Ik
Timeline 43

Year Age Yi Sun-sin's Life Imjin war

1587 43 ■ Appointed officer titled Manho in the border


town Josanbo in January
■ Concurrently appointed officer titled
Dunjeongwan in charge of managing reserved
land called Dunjeonin Nokdundo near Josanbo
in August; this experience managing Dunjeon❹
helped him manage the navy later
■ Demoted to and served as a commoner (Baegui
Jonggun❹) in August, trapped in the false
accusation of his superior Yi Il
❹ Dunjeon: Government-reserved land to secure
provisions for the army during the Joseon
Dynasty. Soldiers, petty officials (Seori),
commoners, and slaves were made to cultivate
virgin land and produce crops to fund the local
government or military provisions.
❹ Baegui Jonggun: Punishment of depriving a
solider of his rank and forcing him to go to battle
as a commoner in a commoner's white clothes.

1589 45 ■ Appointed officer titled Hyeongam❹ in Jeongeup,


Jeollado province, in December
❹ Hyeongam: Head of Hyeon, the smallest
administrative division of Korea during the
Joseon Dynasty. It belonged to the 10th ranking
('Jong 5-pum') out of a total of 18 in the
government hierarchy.

1591 47 ■ Promoted to naval commander, titled Sugun


Jeoldosa❹ of the western part of Jeollado
province on February 13
❹ Sugun Jeoldosa: Government post as a naval
military officer that belonged to the 5th ranking
('Jeong 3-pum') out of a total of 18 in the
government hierarchy during the Joseon
Dynasty, which is similar to the rank of real
admiral in the present military ranking system.

1592 48 ■ Completed building the Geobukseonon❹ April 12 ■ The Imjin War❹ broke out on April 13
■ Defeated the Japanese at the battles of Okpo ■ General Yi Il was defeated in Sangju on April 24
and Happo on May 7, as well as at the battle of ■ General Sin Rip was defeated in Chungju on
Jeokjinpo on May 8 April 28
■ Defeated the Japanese at the battle of Sacheon ■ King Seonjo retreated to the northwest on April
on May 29; the Geobukseon was first used. Yi 30
Sun-sin was shot in the left shoulder, and his ■ Militias (Uibyeong)❹ were formed by General
Lieutenant Na Dae-yong was also wounded Gwak Jae-u and others in April
■ Defeated the Japanese at the battle of Dangpo ■ Japanese troops seized Hanseong (present-day
on June 2, at the first battle of Danghangpo on Seoul) on May 2
June 5, and at the battle of Yulpo on June 7 ■ Japanese troops seized Pyongyang on June 14
■ Triumphed over the Japanese at the battle of ■ King Seonjo retreated to Uiju in June
Hansando on July 8; Yi's tactic of the crane-wing ■ Go Gyeong-myeong, a militia leader, fought
formation (Hagikjin❹) was adopted against the Japanese in Geumsan in July and
■ Defeated the Japanese at the battle of Angolpo died in battle
on July 10 and at the battle of Jangrimpo on ■ General Kim Si-min defeated the Japanese at
August 29 the first battle of Jinju on October 6
■ Defeated the Japanese at the battle of ■ A large Ming Chinese relief army under General
44 Who is he?

Year Age Yi Sun-sin's Life Imjin war

1592 48 Hwajungumi, Dadaepo, Seopyeongpo, Li Rusong arrived across the Amnokgang River
Jeoryeong and Busan on September 1; Yi's in December
Lieutenant Jeong Un (Manho in the Nokdo
❹ Imjin War: Japanese invasions of Korea and the
Island) died in battle.
subsequent wars (1592-1598)
❹ Geobukseon: Geobukseon literally means turtle
❹ Uibyeong: Uibyeong literally means a righteous
ship, derived from its shape of a turtle. These
army. They were formed voluntarily, usually by
warships were built by Lieutenant Na Dae-yong
commoners to protect the country under
under the command of General Yi Sun-sin, and
foreign invasion.
primarily employed as the spearhead of Korean
Navy ships during the Imjin War.
❹ Hagikjin: Naval tactic that surrounds the enemy
fleet in a semicircle and bombards it all at once.
The name was derived from its shape of a
crane spreading its wings. It requires perfect
order and discipline among soldiers.

1593 49 ■ Commanded at the battle of Ungcheonpo ■ A combined force of Korean and Chinese troops
(February 6 to March 8) defeated the Japanese at the battle of
■ Blocked the Strait of Gyeonnaeryang to stop Pyongyang on January 8
Japanese forces from going to the west in May ■ General Li Rusong's Chinese army was defeated
■ Moved his headquarters from Yeosu to at the battle of Byeokjegwan on January 25
Hansando on July 14 ■ General Gwon Yul triumphed over the Japanese
■ Invented an innovative firearm (Jeongcheol on February 12
Chongtong❹) on August 10 ■ Japanese forces retreated from Hanseong in
■ Appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Naval April
Forces of the South on August 15, and received ■ Korean forces were defeated at the second
an official warrant of appointment on October 9 battle of Jinju on June 22
■ Japanese and Chinese forces began
❹ Jeongcheol Chongtong: Innovative firearms, withdrawing from Korea in August
made out of iron, created by Lieutenant Jeong ■ King Seonjo returned to Hanseong on October 1
Sa-jun under the command of Yi Sun-sin. It
combined the strengths of both Korean and
Japanese firearms of the time.

1594 50 ■ Defeated the Japanese at the second battle of ■ Ming China and Japan held a peace talk in
Danghangpo on March 4 Seosaengpo in April
■ Protested against Chinese General Tan ■ Japanese General Konishi Yukinaga asked for
Zongren's order (Geumtopaemun❹) on March 6 amity in August
■ Attacked the Japanese at the first battle of ■ Ming China decided to dispatch an envoy to
Jangmunpo on September 29 and the second Japan in December
battle of Jangmunpo on October 4
❹ Geumtopaemun: Warrant sent by Chinese
General Tan Zongren not to attack the
Japanese.
1595 51 ■ Managed Dunjeon, and inspected the ■ Ming China and Japan had a peace talk in
headquarters of the naval forces of western Ungcheon (January to February)
Jeolla in February ■ Ming Emperor's envoy arrived in Hanseong in
■ Produced salt to fund the navy in May April
■ Japan asked for Korean emissaries to Japan in
December

1596 52 ■ Managed Dunjeon in February ■ Japanese forces withdrew from Gimhae, Geoje
■ Performed a sacrificial rite in May for soldiers and Angolpo (January to February)
who had died of infectious disease ■ Toyotomi Hideyoshi broke a truce in September,
opposing China's offer to install Hideyoshi as
King of Japan
■ Japan declared a resumption of the war against
Korea in October
Timeline 45

Year Age Yi Sun-sin's Life Imjin war

1597 53 ■ Arrested and taken to Hanseong on February 26 ■ Japan initiated its second invasion of Korea with
■ Imprisoned on March 4 about 200,000 soldiers on January 14
■ Released from prison on April 1 and served as a ■ General Won Gyun replaced Yi Sun-sin as
commoner under General Gwon Yul Commander-in-Chief of the Naval Forces of the
■ His mother died on April 13 South on January 27
■ Reinstated Commander-in-Chief of the Naval ■ General Won's navy was defeated at the battle
Forces of the South on July 23, and received an of Chilcheollyang in July, and he himself died in
official warrant of appointment on August 3 battle
■ Defeated the Japanese at the battle of Eoranjin ■ Japanese forces invaded Jeollado province, and
on August 28 and at the battle of Byeokpajin on seized the Namwon Fortress in August
September 7 ■ Chinese forces defeated the Japanese at the
■ Triumphed over the Japanese at the battle of battle of Jiksan in September
Myeongnyang on September 16 ■ Chinese forces were defeated at the battle of the
■ Heard the news of his son Myeon's death in Ulsan Fortress (December 23, 1597~January 3,
battle on October 14 1598)
■ Established a naval base in Gohado Island on
October 29

1598 54 ■ Moved the naval base from Gohado Island to ■ Toyotomi Hideyoshi died on August 18, and after
Gogeumdo Island on February 17 his death, Japanese forces received the order
■ Formed a combined force of Korean and for complete withdrawal from Korea
Chinese navies on July 16 ■ Remaining Japanese forces completely
■ Defeated the Japanese at the battle of Noryang withdrew from Busan on November 25
(the final battle of the Imjin War), and killed by a
bullet on a ship along with ten other Korean
generals on November 19
46 Who is he?

Life
Becoming a Warrior
Admiral Yi Sun-sin prepared for
the invasion of Japanese.
Admiral Yi Sun-sin, also transliterated Yi Sun-
sin, was born in Geoncheon-dong, Seoul, on

of Admiral
March 8, 1545. Due to the poverty of his
family, he moved to and grew up in his
mother's hometown, Asan, in the
Chungcheongnam-do province. In August of

Yi Sun-sin
1572 at the age of 28, he applied for a military
officer examination, but failed the
examination after falling off his horse. Four
years later, in February of 1576, he finally
passed the examination. At the late age of 32,
he began his career as a defense solider at the
bottom rank in the northern frontier region.
Yi Sun-sin would face many challenges
during his military career. Since he lacked
political and economic power, and was
rigidly stuck to principles, he often had
tensions with and thus faced false accusations
by his superiors. Nevertheless, in February of
1591, he was promoted to naval commander
of the western part of Jeolla-do province, as
recommended by Yu Seong-ryong, a high-
profile official and renowned scholar during
the Joseon Dynasty.

Upon his arrival, he set out to build up the


fighting strength of the navy because he
foresaw the inevitability of war against Japan.
He tightened discipline among the troops,
expanded armaments, and produced
powerful defensive weapons, including the
Geobukseon and Panokseon battleships as
well as the Jija and Hyeonja Chongtong
firearms. The Geobukseon battleship was
especially important as the spearhead of the
Life 47

Korean Navy. It was a mighty warship able from the sea and land.
On April 13,
to fire cannons in any direction with a
1592, the
rounded roof covered with spikes to As a result, Yi's naval victories turned the
Imjin War
effectively prevent Japanese soldiers from tide of the war against Japan. Among all his
broke out
boarding. Yi wrote in his war diary victories, the Great Battle of Hansando is
just as Yi
(Nanjung Ilgi in Korean) that his considered not only one of Yi's greatest
had
Lieutenant Na Dae-yong completed the battles, but also one of the world's four
foreseen.
construction of the Geobukseon battleship greatest naval battles along with the Battle
Hundreds of
and test-fired the Jija and Hyeonja of Salamis (480 B.C.), the Battle of Calais
thousands of
Chongtong firearms on April 12, 1592, one (1588) and the Battle of Trafalgar (1805).
Japanese
day prior to the outbreak of the Imjin War The victory at Hansando proved the
troops
(1592-1598). superiority of Korean firearms and
attacked
battleships as well as Yi's brilliance as a
Korea while
naval commander in his use of his creative
The outbreak of naval tactic called 'Hagikjin' or crane-wing
it was not
Imjin war formation. On August 15, 1593, Yi was
prepared for
Joseon fleet blockaded Japanese appointed to Commander-in-Chief of the
war. Yi
invasion force. Naval Force of the South (Samdo Sugun
analyzed the
On April 13, 1592, the Imjin War broke out Tongjesa in Korean) in recognition of his
war situation
just as Yi had foreseen. Hundreds of outstanding wartime service. By this time,
thoroughly
thousands of Japanese troops attacked Japanese forces were stuck in a quagmire
upon the
Korea while it was not prepared for war. Yi due to the successive victories of the
outbreak of
analyzed the war situation thoroughly Korean Navy, the appearance of Korean
the war, and
upon the outbreak of the war, and went to militias (Uibyeong in Korean), and the
went to
battle on May 4, 1592, with full preparation. intervention of the Chinese Army. Japan
battle on
He defeated the Japanese forces by had no choice but to initiate tedious peace
May 4, 1592,
destroying 42 Japanese ships in the naval talks with Ming China that lasted for 45
with full
battles of Okpo, Happo and Jeokjinpo. He months. The peace talks did not include
preparation.
continued to have successive victories in Korea because of Korean opposition to
He defeated
the battles of Dangpo and Danghangpo in peace negotiations with the invading forces the
June, the battles of Hansando and Angolpo of Japan. Japanese
in July and throughout the battles of Busan forces by
in September. The overwhelming victories During this period, Yi continued his best destroying
of Yi's naval fleet boosted the morale of efforts to increase the fighting power of the 42 Japanese
the Korean Navy, and led to Korean Korean Navy by recruiting and training ships in the
control of the south coast of Korea. Yi soldiers, building arms and battleships, naval battles
outmaneuvered the Japanese forces that reserving gunpowder, and securing of Okpo,
had previously advanced northward provisions. At the same time, he conducted Happo and
through Seoul and Pyongyang attacking naval operations under the unfavorable Jeokjinpo.
48 Who is he?

conditions of infectious disease and a The years of hardship


shortage of provisions. According to his war He could restore Joseon
diary entries for March of 1594, he himself fleet by decisive victory at the battle
suffered from a disease. Yi commanded the of Myeongryang..
war despite his ailing body. Additionally, he Unfortunately, despite all of his efforts and
was able to successfully procure large accomplishments, he became entangled in
amounts of food for the war by managing domestic political strife and was eventually
land called Dunjeon, fishing, and producing deprived of his rank as Commander-in-Chief
salt, which proved his notable management and escorted to Seoul as a criminal in February
ability. of 1597. He faced the threat of the death
Life 49

penalty after suffering from brutal torture, Afterwards, Yi concentrated all his efforts When the
but was eventually released from prison on rebuilding the navy, while moving his
Japanese
thanks to the efforts of many people to naval base to Gohado, and later to
warlord
spare his life. However, he was forced to Gogeumdo Island. Jingbirok, a chronicle of
Toyotomi
serve in war as a commoner, which is the Imjin War by Yu Seong-ryong,
Hideyoshi died
referred to as the punishment of 'Baegui recorded that Yi moved his base to
on August 18,
Jonggun' in Korean. What was worse, he Gogeumdo on February 17, 1598, with
1598,
lost his beloved mother at this time. 8,000 soldiers and 53 battleships.
Japanese
However, the General who took the place
forces rushed
of Yi as Commander-in-Chief, General
to withdraw
Won Gyun, was utterly defeated and died at His last battle, from Korea.
the battle of Chilcheollyang in July of 1597. the battle of Noryang The combined
Immediately upon the news of the He was a true hero whose name
disastrous defeat, Yi undertook a patrol would be immortal.
Korean-
through Korean coastal areas with his When the Japanese warlord Toyotomi
Chinese fleet
subordinates for a month in order to find Hideyoshi died on August 18, 1598,
chased after
solutions to recover the Korean Navy. He Japanese forces rushed to withdraw from
the retreating
also reorganized the scattered soldiers and Korea. The combined Korean-Chinese fleet
Japanese
gathered weapons and supplies. On chased after the retreating Japanese army
army and had
August 3, 1597, he was brought back to and had the last battle of the war off
the last battle
lead the navy upon receiving an official Noryang in November of 1598. Yi was
of the war off
warrant of reappointment as Commander- killed by enemy fire during this battle.
Noryang in
in-Chief of the Naval Forces of the South. Mortally wounded and dying, he asked November of
By this time there were only 13 Panokseon that no one be told about his death, 1598. Yi was
battleships left under his command. With concerned about its impact on the morale killed by
this small fleet, Yi faced 133 enemy ships at of his troops. The battle of Noryang was enemy fire
the battle of Myeongnyang. Despite being one of the biggest triumphs and most during this
overwhelmingly outnumbered, he decisive battles that proved the patriotism battle. Mortally
triumphed over the Japanese with his and supremacy of the Korean Navy. wounded and
distinguished leadership, outstanding Throughout the Imjin War, Admiral Yi dying, he
tactics, and knowledge of the geographical Sun-sin was a preeminent warrior who was asked that no
features of the region. This victory stopped never defeated in at least 23 battles under one be told
Japan's attempt to advance into the west his command for seven years. However, he about his
sea that was spurred by its victory at the was not just a brilliant commander, he was death,
battle of Chilcheollyang. Sadly, Yi lost his also a true leader who wholeheartedly concerned
third son due to his victory at loved his country and its people, and about its
Myeongnyang because the defeated sacrificed himself to protect them. Hence, impact on the
Japanese forces raided his home in Asan Koreans regard him as one of the greatest morale of his
and retaliated against his family. heroes of Korean history. troops.
50 Who is he?

Keywords
about Yi Sun-sin
"Song of Hansando"
by Admiral Yi in the watch tower

In the Hansando Island, under the bright moon


While standing alone on the watchtower over the water
With a big sword held tightly in my hand
I am falling into a deep pit of agony
The melody of a flute from somewhere adds more concern.

The practice of justice Ungcheonpo in 1593. In fact, the cause of the ship's capsize
was his subordinate generals not following his orders, yet he

Admiral Yi Sun-sin practiced justice without any took full responsibility as a commander.

compromise of his integrity throughout his life. As a military


officer, he always strictly distinguished between public and "A ship capsized and many were drowned.

private affairs, and had no hesitation in speaking plainly to This is because I failed to adequately lead the soldiers, and

superiors or those in power about injustice. Such my command was ineffective. I am waiting for punishment,

uprightness caused him to go through several hardships prostrating myself on the ground."

during his lifetime, but despite all of those challenges, he (Tongseonilcheokgyeongbokhudaejoejang, April 6, 1593; Yi's

remained faithful to his principle of justice. In practicing report to the King)

justice, he was stricter on himself than on others. The


following excerpt is from his report to the King, asking for Also, he provided many subordinate generals with chances

his own punishment after his navy lost a ship at the battle of to make a distinguished contribution to naval battles. He
Keywords 51

strictly evaluated their operations to leaders of all eras and countries are
be recorded in his report to the King, often well known to have had
so that they could be rewarded
When the Japanese brilliant and creative minds. Yi Sun-
accordingly. Additionally, he hired
warlord Toyotomi sin in the 16th century was also a
engineers from various practical areas
Hideyoshi died on leader with excellent creativity. Yi's
who were often treated
August 18, 1598, creativity was reflected in his
contemptuously at the time, yet
Japanese forces development of various innovative
highly valued them and their work.
rushed to withdraw weapons including the Geobukseon
from Korea. The battleship, outstanding naval tactics
"My Lieutenant Jeong Sa-jun
combined Korean- that became a part of world naval
discovered a unique technology to
Chinese fleet chased history, and effective ways to
make firearms, and developed some
after the retreating manage an army.
firearms with Yi Pil-jong (a marine in
Japanese army and
Nagan who used to be a blacksmith),
had the last battle of The first documentary record about
An Seong (a private slave in
the war off Noryang the Geobukseon battleship
Suncheon), Dong Ji (a temple slave in
in November of appeared in 1413 under King
Gimhae), and Eonbok (a temple slave
1598. Yi was killed Taejong (reigned 1400-1418).
in Geoje) and others. The firearms,
by enemy fire during However, the Geobukseon at the
which they made by striking iron,
this battle. Mortally time was very different in its
have well-constructed gun barrels
wounded and dying, structure and capability from the
and are as powerful as Japanese
he asked that no one Geobukseon Yi redesigned 180
firearms." (Bongjinhwapojang,
be told about his years later in the face of the Imjin
August 10, 1593; Yi's report to the
death, concerned War. The following is a
King)
about its impact on documentary appearance of Yi's
the morale of his Geobukseon, which was described
While reporting to the King about the
troops. in his report to the King about the
production of the innovative firearms battle of Dangpo on June 2, 1592.
called 'Jeongcheol chongtong' in August of 1593, he wrote
down the names of all the people who had contributed to "We put a dragon's head on the front of the ship, and we can
the innovation, not only the name of his lieutenant but also fire our cannons through its mouth. We stuck iron spikes on
the names of lowly slaves. the shell (top), and designed it so that we could see outside
from our position inside the battleship, but enemies cannot
Admiral Yi Sun-sin lived all his life practicing justice by see us inside from their position outside the battleship. This
strictly adhering to his principles. He always led by example battleship can rampage through hundreds of enemy ships in
before he came to judge others. This attitude served as the order to fire cannons. In this battle, I ordered an assault
foundation of his great achievements in saving the nation, commander to lead the ship into the enemy fleet and
highlighting his greatness. bombard the fleet with cannons (Dangpopawaebyeongjang,
June 14, 1592; Yi's report to the King).

Creativity The Geobukseon as an assault battleship was designed by


reforming the Panokseon battleship. The Panokseon was
Creativity is a primary value in the 21st century. Great Korea's primary battleship, designed with an upper deck
52 Who is he?

that was shielded with a layer of tenants farm, there is a need to


wooden panels to be suitable for cultivate the reserved land. Or, you
battles against Japan. Japanese naval may use the defense soldiers in
forces preferred hand-to-hand combat Suncheon and Heungyang to farm
after boarding enemy ships. The during peacetime and go on to
Geobukseon rammed into the enemy,
Admiral Yi Sun-sin battle during wartime. Then there
broke the formation of the fleet, and
is a naval will be no interference in their
bombarded the enemy fleet with
commander who defense duty and it will be beneficial
cannons. It fatally damaged the
was undefeated in for procuring provisions"
Japanese fleet. Japanese forces were
at least 23 battles (Jojinsuryukjeonsajang, September
very afraid of the Geobukseon, calling
for 7 years during 10, 1593; Yi's report to the King).
it the blind ship.
the Imjin War,
starting from the Creativity provides the power to
Even during the continuous naval
battle of Okpo change weakness into strength,
battles, Yi never neglected to develop
through the battle crisis into chance, and nothing into
new weapons. In August of 1593, he
of Noryang. This is something. With his creativity,
invented the Jeongcheol Chongtong,
a great record Admiral Yi Sun-sin constantly
innovative firearms that combined the
rarely found in endeavored to stand up to
strengths of both Korean and Japanese
Eastern or numerous challenges in order to
firearms of the time. Yi's creativity was
Western history. protect Korea against Japanese
also utilized in his management of the invasion and to maintain peace in
navy during the Imjin War. For all East Asia. This made him a
seven years of the war and almost memorable hero who changed
single-handedly, he had to procure all world history.
the means necessary for the maintenance of the navy,
including provisions and funds for the production of
weapons and military training. Undefeated naval record

For this purpose, he engaged in creative administration Admiral Yi Sun-sin is a naval commander who was
initiatives, including fishing, producing and selling salt, undefeated in at least 23 battles for 7 years during the Imjin
managing land called Dunjeon, and issuing certificates that War, starting from the battle of Okpo through the battle of
charged a fee for the passage of coastal waters around the Noryang. This is a great record rarely found in Eastern or
three provinces of Gyeongsang-do, Jeolla-do and Western history.
Chungcheong-do. Using his experience as a Dunjeongwan,
the officer in charge of managing Dunjeon, he gathered How was this legendary record possible?
wandering people in Dunjeon to supplement the military
personnel, and effectively procured provisions for the army. 1. Thorough preparedness
The following is Yi's report to the King, stressing the need Upon his appointment as naval commander of the western
and benefit of managing Dunjeon. part of Jeolla-do province, Yi Sun-sin thoroughly prepared
for a war against Japan since he already foresaw its
"Provisions for the army are the most urgent need ... inevitability. He developed effective training strategies for
[omitted] ... Whether the government administers or lets the navy and produced powerful weapons based on his
Keywords 53

assessment of the strengths and Japanese at the risk of their lives,


weaknesses of enemies. The invention and triumphed despite being
of the Jija and Hyeonja Chongtong overwhelmingly outnumbered. Yi
firearms and the Geobukseon and Before every always led by example to encourage
Panokseon battleships were all in this battle, he prepared subordinates to do their best in
context. Such comprehensive thoroughly and battle.
preparedness led him to victories in devised effective Before every battle, he prepared
all of his naval battles. Also, the strategies by using thoroughly and devised effective
number of Korean casualties was his remarkable strategies by using his remarkable
significantly smaller than that of insight in battle insight in battle conditions. Yi's
Japanese casualties. conditions. Yi's glorious record of all victories and

glorious record of no defeats was possible because he


2. Outstanding tactics all victories and no always took the lead in battle with
The battle of Hansando on July 8, defeats was distinguished bravery, despite the
1592, is a famous naval battle that possible because danger that would await him.
turned the tide of the Imjin War he always took the
against Japan, and is considered as lead in battle with
one of the world's four greatest naval distinguished Diligent record-
battles. The Strait of Gyeonnaeryang, bravery, despite keeping
where about 70 Japanese ships were the danger that
anchored, was too narrow and would await him. A documentary record not only
unfavorable to the Korean Navy. Yi delivers the past to the present, but
saw through these disadvantages and serves as a milestone to look back
enticed the Japanese fleet into the upon the past and plan for the
wider sea. He then attacked the unwary enemies using his future. People who leave accurate records of what happened
creative tactic called 'Hagikjin' or crane-wing formation. This at their time provide an invaluable gift to future generations.
battle concluded with the Korean Navy's triumph. The Admiral Yi Sun-sin is one of them, even though he was a
battle of Hansando proved Yi's ability as a brilliant military officer and not a professional scholar. He wrote a
strategist. He always studied and discussed strategies and war diary (Nanjung Ilgi in Korean) for 7 years from 1592
tactics with his subordinate generals. Naval researchers in until he died at the battle of Noryang in 1598. His war diary
the East and the West have long praised and studied Yi's and the rough drafts of his war reports to the King (Imjin
distinguished naval tactics. Jangcho in Korean) are celebrated as one of the three
documentary classics of the Imjin War, along with Yu Seong-
3. Distinguished war service ryong's Jingbirok, a chronicle of the Imjin War, and the
After establishing strategies on the basis of thorough Seonjo Sillok, the veritable records of King Seonjo. It must
preparations, he acted more bravely than anyone else in have been difficult for a soldier to maintain daily diary
battle. The record is well known that he defeated 133 enemy entries while engaged in life-or-death battles. Nevertheless,
ships with only 13 ships at the battle of Myeongnyang. Admiral Yi Sun-sin diligently kept records of all the events
When Korean Naval generals lost their fighting spirit and during the Imjin War.
held back in going on to battle, Yi rebuked them and went
forward to spearhead the battle. Encouraged by his brave In the Nanjung Ilgi, Yi recorded the barracks life of his naval
initiative, the Korean Navy desperately fought against the headquarters, naval tactics and situations in many naval
54 Who is he?

battles, and various features of the lives of people in the decided to temporarily hold back at a distance of 1-ri away
Joseon Dynasty. He also straightforwardly wrote down his from them at night" (Gyeonnaeryangpawaebyeongjang ,
emotions and thoughts, making the diary the best resource to July 17, 1592; Yi's report to the King)
learn about him as a person. The diary was written in seven
volumes, each volume completed every year from 1592 to In July of 1592, he triumphed over the Japanese at the
1598. The Nanjung Ilgi, designated as National Treasure No. historic battle of Hansando and at the battle of Angolpo.
76, is kept in the Hyeonchungsa Shrine in Asan along with a However, he allowed two remaining enemy ships to retreat.
collection of his letters (Seogancheop in Korean). Collections This was because he was afraid that the Japanese soldiers
of Admiral Yi Sun-sin's works have been published in many might kill ordinary people around the area for revenge. This
different editions, and are constantly read by researchers of choice of his was consistently observed in many later
Yi and by the general public. occasions. The following excerpt shows that he evacuated
people in the urgent situation before the battle of
Myeongnyang.
Devoted love for the country
and the people "I sent a messenger boat to the headquarters of the naval
forces of western Jeolla so as to urge people to go up to the
Beginning his military career at age 32, Admiral Yi Sun-sin land quickly" (Nanjung Ilgi, September 13, 1597; Yi's war
devoted his entire life to protect the country that he diary).
belonged to and loved. Regardless of his military rank, he
did his best in his duty. After the breakout of the Imjin War, Three days later, the Korean Navy faced 133 enemy ships
he protected the territorial waters of Korea as the head of the with only a small fleet of 13 ships in the Strait of
Korean Navy at the cost of his life. He faced many Myeongnyang. This naval battle was critical in deciding the
challenges in serving his country as a military officer. recovery of the Korean Navy and the existence of the
Trapped in false accusations by his superiors, he was country. Before such a decisive battle, he still thought of the
demoted several times and served as a commoner in battle people first. Without a heartfelt love for the people, this
(the punishment of Baegui Jonggun) in 1587 and in 1597. attitude would not have been possible at such a critical
Despite his outstanding accomplishments in naval battles, moment. Throughout his life, he took care of people who
he even faced the threat of the death penalty as a criminal. had lost their homes, helping them make their living
However, these ordeals never affected his patriotism. Until through fishing and farming while under the protection of
his death on a ship during the battle of Noryang in the army.
November of 1598, he was firmly determined to serve his
beloved homeland. The life of Admiral Yi Sun-sin had many challenges and
obstacles in serving the country and the people of Korea.
His love for the country was consistent with his love for the Despite all the hardships, however, he protected the country
people. Even dangerous and precarious situations, his first and looked after the people as always.
priority was always for the safety of the people. He sincerely
cared about people suffering hardships and tried to comfort
them. Such humanitarian efforts were specifically described
in several documentary records, including his war diary.

"If we burned all the Japanese ships and cornered them into
a deadlock, they might slaughter our people. Hence, I
Quotes and Poems 55

Quotes and Poems


by Admiral Yi Sun-sin
Don't make a hasty movement. We are at the height of battle. Don't let
Be like a mountain. Move silently anybody know about my death!
and cautiously. Yi's last words: Yi Sun-sin was shot by an enemy bullet in the battle
Yi's statement to his generals before the battle of Okpo, stressing of Noryang against retreating Japanese forces on November 19,
that they be calm and cautious in battle: The battle of Okpo was the 1598. Even in the last moment of his life he was concerned about
first victory of the Korean Navy and Korean Army since the the war situation. In order to not discourage his soldiers, he said the
outbreak of the Imjin War (Okpopawaebyeongjang, May 10, 1592; famous phrase to his oldest son Hoe and his nephew Wan who were
Yi's report to the King). at his side. The battle concluded with a Korean victory (Yi
Chungmugong Haengnok; Biography of Yi Sun-sin).

Your Highness, I still have twelve battleships.


King Seonjo sent a royal edict to Yi after the Korean Navy under Song of Hansando (Nanjung Ilgi, August 15,
General Won Gyun was nearly annihilated at the battle of 1597)
Chilcheonllyang, saying "Close the navy. Concentrate on land In the Hansando Island, under the bright moon,
warfare". However, Yi strongly insisted that the Korean Navy should While standing alone on the watchtower over the water,
be maintained because he knew the importance of the navy better With a big sword held tightly in my hand,
than anyone else. He later added one more ship. The Korean Navy I am falling into a deep pit of agony,
under Yi's leadership faced hundreds of enemy ships with a force of The melody of a flute from somewhere adds more concern.
only thirteen ships, yet triumphed at the battle of Myeongnyang (Yi
Chungmugong Haengnok ; Biography of Yi Sun-sin). A Night in Hansando
The Sun falls into the vast sea in autumn,
Those who seek death shall live. A flock of wild geese, startled by coldness, flies high up into the sky,
Those who seek life shall die. During a restless night in agony,
Yi's statement to his generals on the eve of the battle of The dawn moon, aloof, sheds light on bows and swords.
Myeongnyang, stressing that they be mentally strong in battle: On
the next day, Yi and his generals desperately fought against
overwhelming odds, 13-133 (number of battleships), and triumphed
(Nanjung Ilgi, September 15, 1597; Yi's war diary).
56 Who is he?

Historical Sites
following the traces
of Yi Sun-sin
during the Imjin War. It was
Hyeonchungsa Shrine Yeosu Jinnamgwan
designated as National Treasure No.
in Asan
304 in 2001. It is located in Gunja-
dong, Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do.

Historical Site of
Yeocheon Seonso in
Yeosu
The Yeocheon Seonso was a dockyard
where General Yi Sun-sin hired the
shipbuilding engineer Na Dae-yong
The Hyeonchungsa Shrine was built The Yeosu Jinnamgwan was a
as his lieutenant, and constructed the
in 1706 to commemorate Admiral Yi guesthouse (official residence) that
Geobukseon or turtle ship. The
Sun-sin. It displays many relics of Yi, belonged to the naval headquarters of
remains of Gulgang (a pond used to
including Nanjung Ilgi (Yi's war the eastern part of Jeollado province
hide the Geobukseon) still exist. It was
diary) and Imjin Jangcho (Yi's war during the Joseon Dynasty. At the
designated as Historical Site No. 392
report). The old house where Yi spent time that General Yi Sun-sin used this
in 1995. It is located in Sijeon-dong,
his childhood and youth is preserved site as his headquarters there was a
Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do..
within this shrine. It is located in watchtower called Jinhaeru. Later in
Yeomchi-eup, Asan-si, Chungcheongnam- 1718, the watchtower was renovated
do. His grave is also located in Eumbong- by General Yi Je-myeon because the
Okpo Great Victory
myeon in the same city of Asan. original building was burned down
Commemorative Park
Historical Sites 57

The Okpo Great Victory Resort Complex was opened in 1987 battleship. The replica of the
Commemorative Park was opened in to commemorate Yi's two naval Geobukseon was constructed in 1980
1996 to celebrate Korea's first victory victories at Danghangpo in 1592 and by the Korean Navy following
over Japan during the Imjin War and 1594. Within the complex are the historical evidence. Visitors are
to commemorate the spirit of the Songchungsa shrine that houses the allowed to enter and see the inside of
leading commander Yi Sun-sin. It portrait of Yi, the Monument of the the Geobukseon. It is located within
displays a map of the Okpo battle and Danghangpo Victory, and other the R.O.K. Naval Academy, Aenggok-
other remains. It is located in Okpo 2- remains. It is located in Danghang-ri, dong, Jinhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do.
dong, Geoje-si, Gyeongsangnam-do. Hoehwa-myeon, Goseong-gun,
Gyeongsangnam-do. Hallyeohaesang Marine
Danghangpo National National Park
Tourist Resort Complex Korea Naval Academy The Hallyeohaesang Marine National
Museum Park consists of a waterway between
The Korea Naval Academy Museum Yeosu and Tongyeong as well as parts
was established in 1976 to educate of the southern coastal regions
naval cadets, naval officers, and other including Namhaedo and Geojedo.
visitors about the history and This area encompasses many
traditions of the Korean Navy. Its historical sites of Yi Sun-sin. Among
exhibitions include documentary these are Hansando (the location of
records and other relics of Yi, and a Yi's naval headquarters), Odongdo
The Danghangpo National Tourist replica of the original Geobukseon (the location of the drilling ground of
People 59

Admiral Yi Sun-sin's People

Na Dae-yong (羅大用 : 1556-1612)


Na Dae-yong was born in 1556 in the city of Naju in the Jeolla-do province. He and his cousin Na Chi-yong began
serving under Yi Sun-sin in 1591, one year prior to the outbreak of the Imjin War. As a lieutenant, and with Yi's complete
confidence, he was given the responsibility of constructing the Geobukseon and other battleships. The Geobukseon
was built by remodeling the Panokseon battleship, then Korea's primary battleship. These battleships were specifically
designed for naval battles against Japan, whose navy excelled in on board hand-to-hand combat. The Geobukseon
was shielded by a roof covered with iron spikes to prevent enemies from boarding the ship. It played a decisive role in
breaking the enemy's formation by spearheading attacks. The Geobukseon could rampage through the enemy fleet and
fire cannons from every direction of the ship. Needless to say, the Geobukseon made an enormous contribution to the
Korean Navy's victories during the Imjin War. Na Dae-yong was not only an excellent shipbuilding engineer, but also a
courageous soldier who carried out remarkable operations in many naval battles, including the battles of Okpo, Dangpo
and Sacheon. He was wounded by enemy fire at the battle of Sacheon along with Yi Sun-sin. After the war, he continued
to study battleships, and developed another ironclad battleship called Changseon, which was densely covered with
swords and spears.

Eo Yeong-dam (魚泳潭 : 1532-1594)


Eo Yeong-dam served as an officer titled Hyeongam in the city of Gwangyang, an area within Yi Sun-sin's jurisdiction,
when the Imjin War broke out in 1592. Since he grew up by the water, he had considerable skills in the operation of ships.
He was also particularly knowledgeable of the tides and currents of the seas around the Gyeongsang-do and Jeolla-do
provinces, and so served as a tide expert. This ability made a significant contribution to the victories of the Korean Navy
during the Imjin War. Eo Yeong-dam engaged in the operations of many great naval battles, including the battles of Okpo,
Hansando, and Busan, until he died of infectious disease in the naval base in Hansando in April, 1594. On April 9, 1594,
Admiral Yi Sun-sin wrote in his war diary (Nanjung Ilgi in Korean) that "My defense soldier Eo Yeong-dam died. How can I
say how sad I am?" Eo Yeong-dam was an outstanding soldier whom Yi loved and trusted very much.

Yu Seong-ryong (柳成龍 : 1542-1607)


Yu Seong-ryong served as second state councilor. Upon the outbreak of the Imjin War in
1592, he also took the lead in general military affairs as the minister of war. For all seven
years of the war, he played a crucial role in bringing the war to victory by leading all state
affairs, including military affairs, administration and diplomacy. Also, he recognized the ability
of General Yi Sun-sin and General Gwon Yul, and raised them to high positions by
recommending them to the King before the Imjin War. As he expected, these two generals
thoroughly prepared for war, and performed distinguished service during the war in naval
and land combat respectively. He had known Yi Sin-sin from childhood, and appreciated his
noble character. Whenever Yi went through hardship in his life, Yu would give him special
assistance. As a prominent scholar, Yu Seong-ryong left many writings. Among them, Jingbirok (懲毖錄) is famed as a
remarkable documentary record of the Imjin War, and was designated in 1969 as National Treasure No. 132. In the
opening of the book, he stressed the need to be wary of possible wars by learning from the lessons of the Imjin War.
60
60 Who is he?

Major
His
Battles
❽ ❽ ❽ ❽❽
❽ ❽
❽ ❽ ❽

❽ ❽

❹ The Battle of Okpo (May 7, 1592) ❹ The battle of Hansando (June 8, 1592)
❹ The Battle of Habpo (May 7, 1592) ❹ The battle of Angolpo (June 10, 1592)
❹ The Battle of Jeokjinpo (May 8, 1592) ❹ The battle of Jangrimpo (August 29, 1592)
❹ The Battle of Sacheonpo (May 29, 1592) ❹ The battle of Busanpo (September 1, 1592)
❹ The Battle of Dangpo (June 2, 1592) ❹ The second battle of Danghangpo (March 4~5, 1594)
❹ The first battle of Danghangpo (June 5, 1592) ❹ The battle of Myeongryang (September 16, 1597)
❹ The battle of Yulpo (June 7, 1592) ❹ The battle of Noryang (November 19, 1598)
Major Battles 61

1. The Battle of Okpo (May 7, 1592)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Admiral Yi sun-sin, Won gyun Dodo Dakadora
Strength 24 panokships and 57 small vessels 30 ships
Casualties and losses None 26 ships destroyed, about 4000 dead

It was the first his battle against Japanese fleet during Imjin war period. He sent spy ships to eastern sea off Busan
port. He didn't depart his naval base until he confirmed Japanese fleet's scale and tactics. On May 7, his fleet and
Won gyun's fleet departed together and sailed to okpo port. Japanese fleet disembarked from their ships and was
plundering villages near by okpo port. Japanese embarked quickly after they found Joseon fleet. Admiral Yi
waited until all Japanese boarded and ordered to discharge guns. His fleet was in a formation of Iljajin which ships
position a line east-to-west. He didn't use boarding tactics, which were very common at that time. He ordered to
bombard guns against Japanese ships. This battle became first victory of Joseon while Joseon army couldn't
attain in land.

2. The Battle of Habpo (May 7, 1592)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Commander Commander-in-chief : Admiral Yi Dodo Dakadora
Strength Strength 24 panokships and 57 small vessels 5 ships
Casualties and losses Casualties and losses Unknown 5 ships destroyed

After Battle of Okpo, Admiral Yi’s fleet was supposed to anchor at youngdeungpo, which is situated in Geojedo,
but they headed to Happo off Ungcheon, present-day Jinhae, because spy ship sent message that Japanese
ships were passing through near sea. Immediately, his fleet chased them and attacked them. Soon, they
abandoned their ships and fled to the land. After Joseon fleet destroyed all ships, they sailed to Nampo in
Changwon.

3. The Battle of Jeokjinpo (May 8, 1592)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Commander Commander-in-chief : Admiral Yi Unknown
Strength Strength 24 panokships and 57 small vessels 13 ships
Casualties and losses Unknown 13 ships destroyed

It was the first his battle against Japanese fleet during Imjin war period. He sent spy ships to eastern sea off Busan
port. He didn't depart his naval base until he confirmed Japanese fleet's scale and tactics. On May 7, his fleet and
Won gyun's fleet departed together and sailed to okpo port. Japanese fleet disembarked from their ships and was
plundering villages near by okpo port. Japanese embarked quickly after they found Joseon fleet. Admiral Yi
waited until all Japanese boarded and ordered to discharge guns. His fleet was in a formation of Iljajin which ships
position a line east-to-west. He didn't use boarding tactics, which were very common at that time. He ordered to
bombard guns against Japanese ships. This battle became first victory of Joseon while Joseon army couldn't
attain in land.
62
62 Who is he?

4. The Battle of Sacheonpo (May 29, 1592)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Admiral Yi sun-sin, Won gyun Unknown
Strength 26 panokships and 20 small vessels 13 ships
Casualties and losses None 13 ships destroyed

Admiral Yi discussed next tactics with his subordinate officers and decided to combine his fleet with Jeolla eastern
fleet. He sent message and was supposed to meet them on June 3. On May 27, Won gyun sent message that his
fleet was under attack of Japanese, he had to leave before Jeolla eastern fleet joined his fleet on May 29. After
Won gyun’s fleet joined his fleet, they chased one Japanese warship and found more ships which were anchoring
in Sacheon port. Admiral Yi ordered to make the formation, Jansajin, which ships station a line north-to-south and
tried to reach this port, because the sea off port was shallow and the tide was ebbing. He tried to entice Japanese
from the port, but about 200 Japanese counterattacked by matchlock in the port. Opportunely, tide changed and
his fleet could reach port. He employed Geobukseon at this battle for the first time. Geobukseon led fleet and
rushed to Japanese. Soon, Japanese abandoned ships and fled to the land. His fleet destroyed all ships. Admiral
Yi was wounded his left shoulder by matchlock.

5. The Battle of Dangpo (June 2, 1592)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Admiral Yi sun-sin, Won gyun Gamei Korenori
Strength 26 panokships and 20 small vessels 21 ships
Casualties and losses None 21 ships destroyed

On June 1, he drove his fleet and anchored at Saryangdo in Goseong. Around 8 am, he departed there after he
got a message that Japanese warships are anchoring at Dangpo port. He arrived off Dangpo around 10 and
attacked Japanese ships. Japanese counterattacked from the land and ships. He sent Geobukseon first, and it
destroyed Adakebune, flagship. Soon, his subordinate officer, Gwon jun cut the head of Japanese commander.
Joseon fleet destroyed Japanese ships while Japanese were perplexed after their commander°Øs death. Shortly
after he triumphed, spy ship sent the message that Japanese fleet was sailing from Geojedo. His fleet tried to
search them, but they lost Japanese fleet.

6. The first battle of Danghangpo (June 5, 1592)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Admiral Yi sun-sin, Yi eok-gi, Won gyun Gato giyomasha
Strength 51 panokships and 50 small vessels 26 ships
Casualties and losses None 26 ships destroyed

On June 4, Jeolla eastern fleet joined Admiral Yi’s fleet. It doubled strength of Joseon fleet. One citizen informed
Joseon fleet that Japanese ships were anchoring at Danghangpo in Goseong. Admiral Yi discussed tactic with
other commanders and decided to entice Japanese ships out of port. Joseon fleet divided into two columns and
first column sailed into port. Second column followed them after first column sent message to enter the port.
Geobukseon destroyed Adakabune first again and all Japanese ships were destroyed
Major Battles 63

7. The battle of Yulpo (June 7, 1592)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Admiral Yi sun-sin, Yi eok-gi, Won gyun Gurushima Michiyuki
Strength 51 panokships and 50 small vessels 7 ships
Casualties and losses None 7 ships destroyed

Combined Joseon fleet departed at dawn again and reached Jeungdo island. They searched traces of Japanese
fleet and reached youngdeungpo at around noon. They found small fleet and chased them. Soon, Japanese
abandoned their ships and ran away in land after this battle. According to Japanese records, Gurushima
Michiyuki reached near land and committed suicide after this battle. On June 10, Combined Joseon fleet
scattered and returned to their naval bases.

8. The battle of Hansando (June 8, 1592)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Admiral Yi sun-sin, Yi eok-gi, Won gyun Wakisaka Yasuharu
Strength 59 panokships and 50 small vessels 73 ships
Casualties and losses None 59 ships destroyed

Although, Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered their navy to be united and attack Joseon navy together, Wakisaka
Yasuharu decided to defeat Yi°Øs fleet by himself. On July 7, his fleet was departed from the Japanese
headquarter in Jinhae. When Wakisaka’s fleet arrived near by Geojedo island, his fleet anchored off
Gyeonnaeryang. On the other hand, a shepherd reported that Japanese fleet was anchoring at Gyeonnaeryang to
Joseon fleet. Joseon fleet decided to entice Japanese fleet from there to the open sea, because that sea is shallow
and it was hard to change body of main warship, Panokseon. Furthermore, Japanese tended to abandon ships
and retreat to the island if they reach an impasse in the middle of battle.
On July 8, 5~6 ships went to Gyeonnaeryang while remaining ships were poised to attack off Hansando island.
Joseon squadron enticed Japanese and poised to retreat from there, Japanese followed them. Squadron arrived
at the open sea and joined Joseon fleet. Admiral Yi ordered to make his famous tactic, Hakikjin, crane wing
formation. Joseon warships discharged guns and 2~3 Japanese warships in front line were sunken by this attack.
Joseon fleet attacked flagship first and surrounded them. Wakisaka drove 14 ships and retreated.
64
64 Who is he?

9. The battle of Angolpo (June 10, 1592)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Admiral Yi sun-sin, Yi eok-gi, Won gyun Guki yoshitaka, Gato yoshiyaki
Strength 59 panokships and 50 small vessels 42 ships
Casualties and losses None About 20 ships destroyed

On July 9, spy ship sent the message that they found 40 Japanese warships in Angolpo port while Joseon fleet
took a rest in Gyeonnaeryang. The Japanese fleet at Angolpo was combined Guki yoshitaka and Gato yoshiyaki
fleet. On July 7, they drove their fleets and followed trace of Wakisaka’s fleet. On July 10, Joseon fleet sailed to
Angolpo and faced Japanese fleet. Joseon fleet tried to entice them again, because the sea level is low and
therefore Panokship couldn’t reach port. However, Japanese fleet didn’t sail out of the port. They counterattacked
at port only, because Toyotomi banned naval battle with Joseon fleet after the Battle of Hansando. Admiral Yi sent
squadron and they destroyed Japanese ships by guns. Thousands of Japanese died and survivors fled to land.
After an half of Japanese warships were destroyed, Joseon fleet left battle field due to they worried the safety of
Joseon civilians who hid near by mountains. Admiral Yi°Øs fleet returned to their base on July 13.

10. The battle of Jangrimpo (August 29, 1592)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Admiral Yi sun-sin, Yi eok-gi, Won gyun Unknown
Strength 74 panokships and other small vessels 6 ships
Casualties and losses None 6 ships destroyed

He built 22 warships more during about a month and maneuvered tactics with Jeolla eastern fleet. They departed
on August 24 shortly after officer of Gyeongsang eastern fleet sent a message that Japanese are sailing down
from Gimhae. They sailed toward Busan and searched Japanese warships till August 28. On August 29, they
found Japanese warships off Janglimpo port in Dongrae and destroyed all.

11. The battle of Busanpo (September 1, 1592)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Admiral Yi sun-sin, Yi eok-gi, Won gyun Most Japanese generals
Strength 74 panokships and 92 small vessels 470 ships
Casualties and losses Admiral Yi’s subordinate officer Jeong Un dead, 130 ships destroyed
6 dead, 25 wounded

After the battle of Jeolyoungdo, Admiral Yi sent spy ship to Busanpo port. Spy ships found about 470 warships at
that port and came back to Joseon fleet. Joseon fleet headed to Busan port and destroyed Japanese squadron, 4
warships and they made the formation, Jangsajin and rushed into Japanese fleet. Japanese army joined their fleet
and attacked Joseon fleet from the near hills. Joseon fleet decisively defeated Japanese fleet and returned to
base, because they had to fix warships and ran out of foods. On September 2, Admiral Yi’s fleet arrived at their
naval base.
Major Battles 65

12. The second battle of Danghangpo (March 4~5, 1594)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Commander-in-chief : Admiral Yi, Eo young-dam Unknown
Strength 30 panokships Unknown
Casualties and losses None 30 ships destroyed

Admiral Yi drove his fleet and headed to Jeungdo shortly after his spy reported that Japanese fleet was sailing to
Oriryang and Jeodo. He divided his fleet into two columns. His subordinate officer, Eo young-dam led first column,
which was consist of 30 warships and attacked about 30 Japanese ships. Admiral Yi’s column secured sea off
Jeungdo. Eo young-dam destroyed about 30 Japanese warships off Danghangpo port. He returned to base on
March 7.

13. The battle of Myeongryang (September 16, 1597)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Commander-in-chief : Gurujima Michihusa, Wakisaka yasuharu,
Admiral Yi sun-sin DoDo akidora
Strength 13 warships and 32 small vessels, About 300 ships, About 120,000 soldiers
About 1500 soldiers
Casualties and losses Unknown Casualties unknown, 31 warships destryoed

On July 16, 1597, Admiral won gyun was defeated at


Chilcheonryang and dead after this battle. About 160
Joseon fleet’s warships were destroyed during this battle. A
naval officer, Bae-seol retreated with 12 warships out of
battle field. Joseon government reappointed Admiral Yi sun-
sin as a commander-in-chief. Before he arrived at naval
base, Admiral Yi collected his navy officers and sailors. On
August 19, he took over Bae-sol’s warships at Hoiryeongpo
port and collected foods, arrows, bows. Although the King,
seonjo ordered to combine his navy with army, Admiral Yi
sent report to king. In this report he wrote his famous quote,
“Your highness, I still have twelve battleships.” He moved his
base to the west and west.
On September 16, his spy reported that hundreds of Japanese warships were sailing to his base at around 7 am.
He drove his fleet and waited Japanese fleet in front of his base, present-day Haenamgun. 133 Japanese
warships had to sail into the Uldolmok, sea between Jindo and hwawon peninsula, it is narrow sea which lowest
sea level is about 1.9m and flow speed is 11.5 note. Japanese had to separate their warships. Most big warship,
Adakabune stationed in front of this sea. Only 133 middle warships, Sekebune could pass the sea. Admiral Yi
ordered to make a formation, Iljajin which ships position end-to-end. At first, Admiral Yi°Øs ship fought against
Japanese warships with guns in the front battle line, while other generals ships were hesitated to attack. He called
other ships and rushed into Japanese battle line first. Soon, tide changed and his all warships followed him. They
destroyed about 31 warships in a flash. After this attack, Japanese retreated at around sunset. He never gave up
and gained glorious victory.
66
66 Who is he?

14. The battle of Noryang (November 19, 1598)


Joseon fleet Japanese fleet
Commander Commander-in-chief : Jin lin Admiral Yi Gonishi Yukinaga, Shimazu Yoshihiro,
So yoshitoshi, Dachibana Muneshige,
Derajawa masanari, Takahashi
munemashu
Strength About 400 Ming’s warships, 500 warships
80 Joseon’s warships
Casualties and losses Admiral Yi dead, 10 Joseon officers dead,
navy casualties Unknown

After the Battle of Myeongryang Japanese fleet evacuated to


Ungcheon, far away from Admiral Yi’s naval base. He collected
foods, ships, soldiers and ammunition and moved his base to east
and east. He settled in Goguemdo on February 17, 1598 to reinforce
his army and secure seas from Gonishi Yukinaga’s army. He could
attain other benefits that he saved foods for the next battle, because
there were many farms. His glorious victory was spread throughout
southern provinces of Korean peninsula and, many civilians gathered
to this island. Admiral Yi could reinforce his fleet with them. According
to Jingbirok, records of Yu seong-yong, Admiral Yi trained about
8,000 and then he worried about shortage of provisions when his fleet
was stationed in this island.

In early 1598, Ming began to send their army to prevent invasion of


Japanese through sea. Ming fleet joined Admiral Yi’s fleet on July 16.
Combined Joseon-Ming army had small and big battles in land and
sea. On August 18, Toyotomi Hideyoshi died and his councilors
ordered Japanese army in Joseon to retreat until November. Gonishi
Yukinaga sent his fleet’s squadrons and tried to retreat, but combined Joseon-Ming fleet blockaded his fleet.
Gonishi bribed Jin lin and then sent his ships to other Japanese fleet bases. Admiral Yi’s officers realized and
reported this to him. He had council of war with his officers and decided to sail to Noryang. His fleet stationed off
Noryang and waited Shimazu’s fleet on November 18. Jin lin’s fleet joined Yi’s fleet because he couldn’t reach
agreement with Gonishi yukinaga. His fleet would receive attack from Shimazu°Øs fleet.

The wind blew from northwest and combined fleet enjoyed benefit from it. They attacked Japanese fleet with fire.
Soon, Japanese warships were in flame and retreated. They locked in port on their way to retreat. Japanese
strongly confronted combined fleet to escape from the port. Middle of battle, Admiral Yi was dead by bullet wound
around gwaneumpo port in presence of his son Yi hoe. Before he died, he said his famous will, “We are at the
height of battle. Don’t let anybody know about my death!”
Arsenal 67

His Arsenal
Battleships 1

Panokseon ship
Panokseon ship was main warship of Joseon fleet. Its name
means literally wood warship having panok, loft on it.
Commander boarded on this loft while oarsmen and
soldiers boarded in gun deck. Koreans added tall wood
plates in both side of a ship above upper deck because
Japanese main naval tactic was boarding tactic which navy
board enemy's ship and fight on their ship's deck by
sword.

It was also designed to sail in southeastern coast of Korea


which has wide mudflats and many large and small islands.
Hence this ship had flat keel. Its structure was sturdy than
Japanese warships, because Koreans used wooden nail to
fix planks when they build this ship and it was made of sturdy pine wood plates. Therefore it was able to absorb
reaction which occurred after the gun was pushed backward by the force of the blow. On the contrary, Japanese
ships couldn't absorb reaction, because they fixed planks with iron nails and their ships were made of Japanese
cedar. This wood was less solidity than pine tree. Hence it couldn't carry guns on it.

Admiral Yi's fleet was composed of this ship in most battle. It followed Geobukseon and bombard Japanese
fleet. He built 24 ships before the Imjin war broke out and built more ships during war period. His famous
formation, Hakikjin, was able to position due to this ship. Furthermore, he could defeat Japanese fleet far away by
guns. It was one of reasons why he could gain continue victories till the Imjin war ended.
68 Who is he?

Battleships 2

Geobukseon ship
It is also known as turtle ship.
Geobukseon means literally turtle
shaped warship in Korean. It was
similar as floating turtle. According to
Lee Chungmugong Jeonseo,
Biographies of Yi Sun-sin, the
Geobukseon ship which was used
during the imjin war period was
designed by Admiral Yi Sun-sin and
built by his subordinate naval officer,
Na Dae-yong. According to
T'aejongsillok, Annals of King T'aejong,
Joseon scientists already invented
turtle warship and had launch it in
Hangang river. This test launch
occurred during T'aejong's reign,
1401~1418. But, modern Korean
historians inferred that this ship was quite different as the Geobukseon ship which used by Admiral Yi's fleet.

Sailors inside of this ship could see the enemy, but enemy couldn't see its inside. It made Japanese to confuse
where they shall attack. It was double-deck ship and propelled by sails and oars. There were cabin and
warehouse in the first deck. It carried four series of guns in the second deck and Soldiers and oarsmen boarded
on it. Its figurehead was dragon's head to frustrate Japanese because they scared dragon the most. There was
a wooden crest which rammed enemy ships below the dragon's head.

It could discharge fires from the four directions. Inside of the


Dragon's head, it carried Hyeonjachontong and fired when it rushed
to Japanese battle line. It carried 6 Chenjachongtong or
Jijachongtong in broadside and approximately 1 gun in stern.

Admiral Yi built 3 Geobukseon ship before the Imjin war broke out. It
was employed in the Battle of Sacheonpo for the first time. In battle, it
led whole fleet and attacked Japanese ships first. After it dispersed
Japanese battle line, remaining warships followed it. The main target
of this ship was Adakebune, flagship which Japanese commander
boarded.
Arsenal 69

Firearms
Firearms were first introduced to Goryeo, medieval state of Korea in 1104, but these weapons were extensively
developed after Choi mu-seon developed method to produce gunpowder and established special government
agency, Hwatongdogam in 1377. Joseon people also had developed various guns, muskets and shots. This
development became one of reasons why Joseon fleet could defeat Japanese.

Guns
Four series of guns, Cheonja, Jija, Hyeonja and Hwangja were used during Imjin war period. Ancient Koreans
gave different names for this four series of guns to separate their capability according to maximum range, number
of balls and length. These guns mounted on Geobukseon ship and Panokseon ship. According to Nanjungilgi,
war diary of Admiral Yi, he inspected naval bases when they test fire the guns in February 1592. He also drove his
fleet and tested these guns of Geobukseon in the middle of south sea.

Guns comparison
Cheonjachongtong Jijachongtong Hyeonjachongtong Hwangjachongtong
Range 1,125m 1,000m 1,000m or 1,875m 1,378m
Calibre 118~130mm 105mm 60~75mm 40mm
Length 130~136cm 89~89.5cm 79~83.8cm 50.4cm

Cheonjachongtong : Cheon literally means sky in Korean. It


was the largest gun and fired mostly Daejanggunjeon, cannon
arrow to make a hole in the body of Japanese warships. It also
could fire cannon ball and 400 Joranhwan, kind of shrapnel.

Jijachongtong : Ji literally means earth in Korean. It was the


second largest gun and fired mostly Janggunjeon and 200
Joranhwan.

Hyeonjachongtong : Hyeon literally means black in Korean. It


was the third largest gun and fired mostly Chadaejeon and 100
Joranhwan.

Hwangjachongtong : Hwang literally means yellow in Korean.


It is the smallest gun and fired mostly Piryeongchajungjeon and
40 Joranhwan. The actual gun which was produced by gun artisan, Bu Gwi was designated Treasure Number
886, and preserved in the National Museum of Korea.

Musket
Jeongcheolchongtong : According to Nanjungilgi, , it was invented by the officer, Jeong Sa-jun under the
admiral Yi. He compared Joseon's matchlock, sungjachong with Japanese matchlock and invented it. It was
made of refined iron.
Friendly Korea
V@NK is making a steady progress toward its goal to build a bridge between Koreans and
foreigners.17,000 V@NK members are keeping in touch with their international friends and building
friendships.

Our international members gave us many interesting stories about their experiences with Korean friends
that helped them learn about Korean culture, history and the daily life of the people. Most impressive
stories are presented to you in this magazine, Friendly Korea. You can also read letters that have been
exchanged between foreigners all over the world and their Korean friends, and find answers to a lot of
questions about Korea that you may have.

Moreover, you can grasp the essence of Korean culture through ‘Han-style’ that consists of Hangeul
(Korean language), Hansik (Korean food), Hanbok (Korean clothing), Hanok (Korean traditional
housing) and more, which will deepen your understanding of Korea. Also, five regions in Korea send
their special invitations for you through this magazine. Experience what they want to show you in their
regions.

Friendly Korea is ready for you to read at http://times.prkorea.com


Chapter 4
The truth about
him
- Looking for Truth
- Truths and Falses
- Letter writing campaign
72 The truth about him

Looking for Truth


Yi Sun-sin and the Imjin War
in foreign textbooks and websites

Analysis of descriptions about Yi Sun-sin


and the Imjin War in foreign textbooks and websites

A major issue we found in analyzing descriptions of Yi Sun-sin and the Imjin War in foreign resources is that
often these descriptions are simply neglected in foreign history textbooks, encyclopedias and popular websites.
Although Yi's leadership and bravery are useful educational contents to inspire youth in the world beyond
Korea, they are not even mentioned in reference books and websites that foreign students use for studying
purposes.

Another significant issue we found is that even those few foreign resources with limited content about Yi often
provide incorrect information. For example, Yi's last battle in the Noryang Strait is described as an illegitimate
attack on Japanese retreating forces because it broke an armistice agreement. However, there was no armistice
agreement between Korea and Japan, and so this description gives readers the wrong impression that Yi won the
battle by resorting to foul play. The dissemination of such misinformation gives some cover to Japan that had
engaged in an aggressive war of invasion against Korea, and degrades Yi's character and accomplishments
during the Imjin War.

The way the Imjin War is described is also problematic. Foreign history textbooks and websites represent the
Imjin War only from the historical perspectives of China and Japan. This absence of a Korean perspective is
consistent with the common fallacy that Korea is only a shrimp caught between the two whales of China and
Japan. An example of a description of the Imjin war from a Chinese perspective is the mistaken belief that Korea
was only able to escape from the threat of Japanese occupation due to the arrival of Chinese relief forces because
Korea had no modern weapons to defend against the Japanese forces. This perspective reduces the conditions of
the Korean victories during the Imjin War to the presence of Chinese assistance, downplaying the
accomplishments of the Korean Navy under the command of Yi Sun-sin.

An example from a Japanese perspective is that the Japanese invasion of Korea was only to use Korea as a
stepping stone or passage to China. This perspective assumes that the Imjin War was a conflict between China
and Japan for hegemony in Asia, ignoring Korea's stance and role as a regional player in Asian geopolitics.
Truths and Falses 73

Truths and Falses


Yi Sun-sin and the Imjin War in foreign textbooks and websites

Errors in the descriptions of Yi Sun-sin


and the Imjin War in foreign textbooks, websites and corrections
of those descriptions based on accurate information

Error Correction

History of World Civilizations (Ongot Khevel et al., 2005):


Mongolian textbook

Toyotomi Hideyoshi sent troops to Korea, a vassal of China, and Korea was not a vasssal state of China in 1592. The Imjin War
invaded several towns on the coast in 1592 ... Japan's attack on (1592~1598) consisted of Japanese invasions of Korea as an
Seoul caused the conflict between China and Japan. In 1597, independent state, not a part of China. Japanese forces landed
Japan again sent large forces to China to strike a blow to the on the shore in the southern port city of Busan in April, 1592, and
Chinese Army. successfully advanced through Korea's northernmost area of the
Tumen River. However, Yi's successive naval victories, the
resistance movements of Korean militias throughout the country,
and Ming China's intervention turned the tide of the war against
Japan. Eventually in 1598, Japanese forces completely withdrew
from Korea, due to their continuous defeats in naval battles and
the death of Hideyoshi, the Japanese warlord who had waged
the Imjin War.

Holt World History: The Human Journey (Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 2003):
American textbook

In 1598, the Korean Navy invented the iron-clad battleship called It was in 1592 when Admiral Yi Sun-sin built the Geobukseon
the Geoubukseon. battleship in preparation for Japanese invasion. Its name was
given because its shape was similar to a turtle (Geobuk in
Korean). Yi developed this battleship by reforming the
Panokseon battleship, then Korea's primary battleship. The
Geobukseon was a mighty battleship that could fire cannons in
any direction for offense and was covered with iron spikes for
effective defense. In battle, it struck fatal blows to enemy ships
by disturbing the formation of their fleet.
74 The truth about him

Error Correction

The History of Asia (Serafin D.Quiason, Fe B.Mangahas, et al., 1998):


Philippine textbook

Factional strife worsened in the Yi-Dynasty ... Hideyoshi's Hideyoshi invaded Korea in 1592, not in 1590.
invasion dealt a more serious blow to Korea in 1590.

The Cassell Atlas of World History (John Haywood et al., 2001):


British textbook

Kato Kiyomasa and Konishi Yukinaga led the invasion of Korea It was Admiral Yi Sun-sin's Korean Navy that nearly annihilated
under the command of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Although Konishi the Japanese fleet. Kato Kiyomasa and Konishi Yukinaga were
successfully occupied Busan in 1592, the Japanese Army the spearhead of Japanese invasion forces. They arrived at
became isolated after the Ming Navy forces nearly wiped out the Busan in April, 1592, and advanced northward. The Japanese
Japanese fleet. Army had victory after victory and marched through Korea's
northernmost area of the Tumen River. However, the Japanese
Army became isolated after they were cut off from their
communication and supply lines by Yi's Korean Navy. The Ming
Chinese Navy did intervene in the war, but it didn't take the
leading role in naval battles.

Global Studies: Civilization of the Past and Present (Henry Brun, 1998):
American textbook

China also gave Korea military aid. With this help, Koreans The intervention of Ming China assisted Korea in repelling the
resisted the Japanese forces that had invaded their country from Japanese invasion forces. However, Chinese aid was not the
1592 to 1598. primary factor of Korea's victory. Rather, the Korean Navy under
Yi's leadership and Korean militias raised throughout the country
both played a crucial role from the beginning of the war to the
end.

Knowledge Rush Encyclopedia


http://www.knowledgerush.com/kr/encyclopedia/Yi_Sun-sin

On November 19, 1598, Admiral Yi was shot during the final Correction: In the Noryang Strait, Admiral Yi Sun-sin defeated the
battle of the war when he broke an armistice agreement and Japanese forces that invaded Korea and had inflicted immense
attacked Japanese remnants at Noryang. suffering on a number of innocent civilians. During this operation,
he was shot and died. At the time, he said his famous words;
"We are at the height of battle. Don't let anybody know about my
death!" He faithfully stuck to his role of protecting the country
even on the verge of his death.
Truths and Falses 75

Error Correction

Jade Dragon Online


http://www.jadedragon.com/archives/history/yisunshin.html

On September 16, 1597, he led 12 turtle ships against 133 Admiral Yi Sun-sin defeated 31 Japanese ships with 13
Japanese ships in the Myongnyang Strait. The Koreans sank 31 battleships and patriotic soldiers at the battle of Myeongnyang.
enemy ships and sent the others fleeing in this victory. Through this victory, Korea took control over the Korean seas.

American Airlines
http://americanairlines.wcities.com/en/record/,256325/81/record.html

A Korean fleet of only twelve kobuksan was able to defeat 133 Admiral Yi Sun-sin's Korean Navy faced a Japanese fleet of 133
Japanese ships in 1597, preventing enemy troops from ships with only their 13 battleships in the Myongnyang Strait.
occupying Korea at that time. Despite being overwhelmingly outnumbered, they desperately
fought to protect their country and triumphed by sinking 31
enemy ships.

Free Dictionary by Farlex


http://encyclopedia.farlex.com/Yi,+Sun-sin

He was killed in one of the final battles of the war, at Kogum-do. Admiral Yi Sun-sin was killed on a ship during his last battle off
Noryang, and his corpse was temporarily moved to the
Gogeumdo Island where his naval base was located.
76 The truth about him

Letter writing Admiral Yi Sun-sin is a Korean hero in the 16 century who


fought against Japanese invasion upon Joseon for seven and a
half years, and won the unprecedented 23 complete victories

campaign
among the 23 naval battles. It is the unique record in the history
of world naval battles as well.
He is not only a national hero who's been selected as the most
respected hero for the Korean people during the 5,000 years of
Korean history, but also the one who played a role of the
bulwark of peace of East Asia at that time, driving a wedge in
Japanese plan to expand their territory to the East Asian
countries including China, using South Korea as a stepping-
stone. Furthermore, the battle of Hansan regarded as his
representative battle has a historical value and meaning with its
Dear sir or madam innovative strategy and the applicative competence of the fleet.
(Textbook publishing company person in charge) Some experts in naval battles and the Naval Academy
appreciated the significance of the battle of Hansan.
Hello. I express my sincere respect for you to manage the You can get the well-organized information about the battle of
website inspiring and challenging the young people around the Hansan, one of the world 4 naval battles, by visiting our website
world. I am living in South Korea, and a member of a below.
nongovernmental organization called VANK. VANK is an http://www.prkorea.com/yisunsin
abbreviation for Voluntary Agency Network of Korea and
consists of Korean students from elementary to senior school
and other adult volunteers. We are promoting Korea to the The reason why I especially promote Admiral Yi Sun-sin and the
world through pen-pal activities with foreign friends from all battle of Hansan to you is that many people in the world
over the world. Also, we are learning different countries' introduce heroes on the point of western history only.
culture, history, and a leadership of national heroes as a part of
an education for world citizenship. As I have contacted with The world 3 naval battles also exclude the East. In Asia, there are
students in many other countries via emails, I became interested many stories of hidden heroes and leadership having changed
especially in the naval battles and the leadership of national the world history.
heroes who saved their country from a crisis, often introduced
in world history textbooks. Your company is standing on the significant position as like a
hatchway delivering the right historical facts and truth to the
Especially when I studied the naval battles to be a turning point students all around the world.
of world naval battles' history and shift the stream of human Thus, it would be mostly appreciated if you introduce Admiral
history such as the battle of Salamis, the battle of Gravelines, Yi Sun-sin and the battle of Hansan for the balance of the
and the battle of Trafalgar, counted as the World 3 Naval perspective toward the West and the East. If you ask any
Battles, I could learn how should I live on the global stage and materials related to Admiral Yi Sun-sin or the battle of Hansan,
what should I prepare now to change my own country and the we will help you as much as we can.
world.
Our wish is to promote the great but hidden Asian heroes to
While I read the stories of world naval battles and the the people in the world through our voluntary effort. And also,
biographies of the world heroes introduced in major textbooks, we sincerely hope to promote the Korean national image, the
websites, and encyclopedias, I was encouraged to let you know peace maker in 21 century in Asia as Admiral Yi Sun-sin was in
that there is a missing point in your website and your the past. We'll look forward to your kind cooperation for our
publication. There is affluent and detailed introduction about dream to come true.
the battle of Salamis, the battle of Gravelines, and the battle of Faithfully yours,
Trafalgar with a great deal of weight, but there is little
reference on a Korean Admiral Yi Sun-sin and the battle of http://www.prkorea.org
Hansando. http://www.prkorea.com
Chapter 5
VANKY
introduces him
- VANKY introduces
him to the world
78 VANKY introduces him

Hey! It’s Seonghwa here.

How are you? You know I’m really interested in politics and my ambition is to become either a politician or a diplomat right? Well,
speaking of politics, there’s something I want to tell you about. You know Korea was once colonized by Japan like Indonesia,
right? Well, the attack of Japanese in Korean peninsular did not just happen once at that time but was an issue for a long period
of time since about even before Joseon Dynasty, the last dynasty in Korea before it became a democratic country. Japan wanted
to take over Korea as one of their expansionism and colonialism plan. During over hundreds of Japanese attack of Korea, lots of
Korean fought. What I want to talk about now is the most praised hero from 16th century Korea(Joseon Dynasty), Yi Sun-sin. You
may know some famous Korean figures like King Sejong, who created Korean language. But unfortunately, Yi is not as world-wide
famous as King Sejong despite his achievement in protecting Korea, well at that time, Joseon Dynasty.

Yi Sun-sin was born in 1545 and later he became the admiral in Joseon fleet at the age of 47. His great achievement ties with the
Japanese invasion in 1592. The background of this Japanese invasion was the political instability due to the recent unification of
the government in Japan by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. After Hideyoshi has united Japan by seizing power, there was a lot of opposition
and domestic conflicts so he started to attack Joseon in order to draw the Japanese attention to this war. This war has lasted for 7
years, leaving huge loss of soldiers and so on. This war was over with Joseon’s victory due to Yi Sun-sin’s military tactics and
bravery despite the disadvantages his army had such as small number of ships and ill-equipped soldiers. Saying that Japanese
soldiers possessed the gun and Joseon soldiers had to fight against them with traditional arrows, guess how many difficulties
Joseon soldiers encountered? Nevertheless, Yi did not complaint on any disadvantages he had, he fought with his best effort and
lead to Joseon’s victory.

According to the sources, Chungmugong, Yi Sun-sin’s nick name meaning patriotic hero (I think), has always emphasized on
keeping soldier’s morale. Like in WWI, one of the reasons why central powers lost was the decreased morale of the soldiers due
to the entry of USA in 1917. Well, now you see how important it is to keep soldiers morale. He focused on keeping soldiers mind
strong, as in like, always think they will win. He said If you fight like you will die, you will live. But when you try to survive in the
battle, you will get killed., in a Battle of Myeongryang. This was said to remind the soldiers that no matter what happens, they
should fight with their best effort so they don’t show any excuse for the Japanese soldiers for the sudden attack. To set up the
tactics for the wars at sea, he was fully prepared for the tactics those are suitable for the geographical condition. He also did not
forget to prepare for the food supply, home front and minimize the loss of civilians life.

Yi has invented a very interesting Ship called Geobukseon which means the Turtle Ship. Sounds fun? But you should not
underestimate it. The ship was designed by Yi to scare the Japanese. As you see in the photo (I’ve attached it for you!), it is made
up of metals with spike on the top. This was used to lead the group of ship. Under the metal spike, the wooden part, soldiers
would hide and shoot the arrows. No matter how much Japanese soldiers would fire at Geobukseon the metal deck was strong
enough to protect the ship and the soldiers. It is said that this ship, Geobukseon played a very crucial role in the defeating the
Japanese. It seems like Yi was really talented in both military tactics and designing devices for military tactics. He surely had a
capability of becoming a great admiral and the national hero.

Is there any famous Indonesian general who fought against the Dutch government during colonization or any revolutionary forces
against Dutch and Japanese forces? I’ve heard the man in the 1,000 Rupiah (money paper) is a famous civil revolutionary man
VANKY introduces him to the world 79

with a sword? Ah, speaking of which, I’ve got an interesting thing to tell you! In a memorial museum, there’s a 2m long sword
owned by Yi Sun-sin. So people were wondering, “How tall was Yi to be able to use such long and heavy sword?” And they also
had an interesting discussion about his height. Haha. But at the end, it was proved that he didn’t actually used the sword in the battle
but was just used as a symbol of his power as a admiral.
Even though Yi is not a world-wide figure yet, there were some testimonials praising his achievements made by western historians
and even Japanese. One Japanese admiral, Sato Tetsutaro was once a professor in Japanese navy university in 1908. In his book, he
wrote “If you would mention a great sea admiral, there’s Yi Sun-sin from Korea in Eastern country and Nelson from the UK in Western.
Yi Sun-sin surely is a greatest naval hero. Unfortunately, he was born in Joseon which limited his fame to spread to all around the
world. However, if documents about Japanese Invasion were read, one will realize he surely was a great sea admiral.” Japan was
the one who attacked Joseon and might have biased idea due to its defeat but the fact that even a Japanese General was praising
Yi Sun-sin admiral’s greatness, he must have been a great person. Furthermore, he also has said that even a great British admiral,
Nelson, cannot be compare to Yi Sun-sin’s personality.

His patriotism is still remembered by Koreans for about 500 years. To remember his achievements, his status are build in different
places and his museum as well. Also, a computer game based on his wars was created and his life and war story has been made
as a drama series. There’s a famous saying by Yi which all the Koreans know. “Do not tell anyone about my death.” He didn’t
want to tell his followers- soldiers about his death because they might be in panic, so he chose to spend his final moment alone. I
always thought he was a brave and strong figure but he might have been lonely. He was poor so he was raised up by
grandparents, he became admiral at the age of almost 50 and lost his son from the battle.

He surely is one of the greatest hero who protected Korea. If he wasn’t there, Joseon would’ve lose in the Japanese invasion attack
and Korea might have been colonized by Japan since then. Or even worse, today’s Korea wouldn’t exist. I want to learn his strong
mind which didn’t give up in any situation, and hope other people around the world will do the same. We’re still young, so if we try
our best I’m sure we will be able to become a great people as well. We live in a global world as one of the Global citizen.
Apparently, each of us will represent our country Indonesia and Korea. Therefore, we have to be patriotic as Yi was, be
sympathetic and kind like he look after his soldiers, be creative like how he invented Geobukseon( these days, creativity is really
important than before!), and have a strong mind to not to give up easily. (Yi was born in a poor family, he went to the battle field
just with 10 old ships and he was even imprisoned for several times.) And most importantly, believe in yourself.

Oh boy.. my letter is so long! I’ve been talking so much. Hehe. Well, what do you think about Admiral Yi and his achievements? If I
could give a nickname for him, I would call him ‘Invincible Admiral Yi’ Next time, tell me about Indonesian general or revolutionary.
Just like Yi , I don’t think there is any world-wide famous Indonesian general, right? I think we, as patriotic citizens, have to put our
effort in spreading our cultures and history. There’s no one who just knows about their own culture today. Everyone has fertile
knowledge about other country’s history and international issues. Everyone tries to become a true global citizen. Since we go to an
international school, I think we should be their role model. Our graduation is really soon and after the graduation we’re going to
become a real adult. I hope both us can be the great leader of the world by remembering Yi Sun-sin’s will as you become an
architect and myself as a politician or a diplomat.
Thank you for being patient and reading all my endless long-essay like letter. :P Take care!

-Seonghwa, Lee -
80 VANKY introduces him

Hey Seonghwa!

I’m sorry for the late reply. I’ve been struggling with lots of stuff these days. Hehehe. Well, anyway, yes I’ve read your letter
and gosh, it’s so long. :P
First of all, I would like to say that the history about Admiral Yi you wrote is very interesting and I could see that you got an
excellent view in politics. He fought the Japanese as hard as he could to protect Korea and reach his achievements. In my
opinion, I could agree with you that without him, today’s Korea might not even exist. The story about Geobukseon( is this how
you spell?) sounds interesting. Perhaps maybe it is the only unique ship in the history of the world! You forgot to attach the
photo but I looked it up myself in google. It was hard to find because in google, they spelled it as Geobukseon.. But it’s okay
because two of them sound similar. I think Yi was really smart! I mean, who would ever think about making a ship that looks like
a turtle? It’s hilarious. Don’t get me wrong, I think it’s really creative. I wish I was there to see how it worked but I’m too scared.
:P Besides the story about Tortoise Ship, the 2meter long sword was pretty interesting too. It seems like one’s status was really
important long time ago. You said you also wanted to know about the general or revolutionary from Indonesia right. Well,
apparently i don't know much detail about it You mentioned the picture of a man on the Rp 1000,- right? I'll tell you, he is one of
the patriotic hero from Maluku (small islands between Sulawesi and Irian). His name is Pattimura. The reason he strikes back is
because the Dutch ma de some nonsense rule about monopolying in trading which is unfair. It took me a little bit of research to
find what happen and this is what I got. So, for example, the Indonesians had to plant spices and the Dutch took it when it
grows so they could sell it for their own benefits. But, if the price of the spices goes down, we had to destroy those we had
plant. Pattimura took action in strikes them back and the Dutch were starting to lose. The Dutch were asking for backups
because the Pattimura troops were hard to defeat. However, at the end they had to fall back because their force was
unbalance to defeat the Dutch. Some of them were captured and it was found that there were traitors in Maluku. So then
Pattimura was sentenced to death. Imagine how sad is that. To be honest, I'm lucky enough that I wasn't born on that period.
Even though there are no more colonization, war is still not over. You may heard an issue in Maluku that there was a struggle
between Christian and Muslim. In my perspective, I don't see a point in war of religion. I mean they can't fight over on other
people's faith, it's just.... unethical or something. I think I have the same opinion as you. Without those patriotic heroes, I don't
think Indonesia would look like this today. It is good to know that such different countries Korea and Indonesia had similar heroic
figure. Anyway, I don't think I could write more cause if I do, it would be so long and you'd loose you patience in reading it~
LOL! Thank you for reading my reply and I hope it helped you to learn a little bit of the background of the colonization in
Indonesia. It is a shame that our hero, both Yi Sun-sin and Pattimura are not world wide hero like they should be. Hope there
will be a time when people know them like King Sejong or any other western heroes. (I still remember a bit about Korean
language history from the Korean language club you had at school!) Time and the amount of efforts we put will tell. Be success
and be a great diplomat. See you!

From Amanda
VANKY introduces him to the world 81

Never Dying Admiral Yi Sun-sin who lives in the past, present and future.

Thank you for your E-mail about Alfred Novel. People all over the world know about Novel Prize and I°Øm quite sure that you're
really proud of him. Now, I want to tell you about a great admiral who saved my country from Japanese attack. All Koreans
respect the great admiral Yi Sun-sin because he was the one who sacrificed himself for Korea with no reward. To make a short
summary, he was born in 1545, and became admiral in 1591. During that time, he built ships including Geobukseon, turtle
shaped battleship to prepare for the Imjin war. Accordingly, he was able to win all the battles, and that eventually lead our
country to win the war. What's more is that admiral Yi Sun-sin wrote a diary during the war which helps researchers to know the
accurate situation during the war.
Nowadays, we can see a bronze statue of him on the street of Gwanghwamun in Korea and it's really famous among Koreans.
This tells us the fact that all Koreans admire and love Yi Sun-sin. Please don't forget that there is admiral Yi Sun-sin in Korea as
there is Novel in Sweden!
Bye!!

From yours,
Lee sue jung from Korea

Dear. sue jung

Thank you for telling me about the admiral. I've been looking forward to hearing a famous person of Korea from you. Admiral Yi
Sun-sin is a great person that I have never imagined before. I found more information about him after reading your E-mail.
Thanks to that, I was able to know Korea's history and I feel that I can go even closer to Korea. You know what? One of my best
friend is going to visit Korea this summer. I recommended her to visit Gwanghwamun and see his bronze statue. She may take
some pictures of it and maybe I can see it through pictures. If I have opportunity to visit Korea, I will go there too. Thank you
again for your good information.
Bye!

p.s. I'm going to make a presentation about the admiral.


I'm planning to announce it to all my classmates during the sociology class.

From Joakim
82 VANKY introduces him

I feel so grateful to you for letting me write this.

I began this writing for the contest, which gets me to know a lot of great things about Admiral Yi Sun-sin.
The Joseon Dynasty was the last Empire of Korea. Imjin War was so horrible, and had affected the Dynasty a lot so that it
divided the Dynasty into the former term and the latter one. Admiral Yi Sun-sin was at that time. From his first battle, battle of
Okpo, to his last, battle of Noryang, he achieved great honor. But the king and other retainers didn't acknowledge that. Let me
quote an abbreviation of him by a professor. It's like the below:

Don't put blame on being of no special family. I was born in family of ruined rebel, and was raised by relatives on my mother's
side due to poverty. Don't tell me that you are not intelligent. I had failed in the first examination, and barely passed it when 32
years old, in my late years. Don't complain of not holding a high position. I went on my rounds as a minor guard officer in the
border areas for 14 years. Don't tell me it's inevitable just because it's the order of your boss. I got dismissed and disadvantaged
for many times due to the discord with my immoral bosses.
Don't be worried about your fragility. I suffered from chronic stomach troubles and infectious diseases all in my lifetime.
Don't be discontented with having no chances. I became an admiral in the age of 47 after my country was in danger by the
invasion of the enemy.
Don't be disappointed with not being supported by the organization. I supplied the sinews of war all by myself by cultivating the
soil to fight 23 times and win 23 times.
Don't be dissatisfied with not being admitted by your boss. I had to remain imprisoned, deprived of all my credit due to endless
misconception and mistrust of my King.
Don't feel desperate having no capital. Returning empty-handed, I kept off the enemy of 133 vessels with 12 old vessels.
Don't say that you love your own family in wrong way. I lost my 20 year-old son by the blade of the enemy, but went to the
front with other sons.
Don't be afraid of death. I chose death by myself in the last war of the enemy receding. And his story is written in novel, and
filmed as soap-opera.

Please visit this website


http://www.prkorea.com/yisunsin/
Then, you can know more about him.
I think this website can explain about him better than me. ^.^;

Jisu Lee
VANKY introduces him to the world 83

Hello jisu,

I have searched information on internet about him and read. Honestly I’m impressed by his life, struggle, character and morale. I
should confess that his story was really touching. When I read, I remembered heroic characters of Ottoman and Muslim history.
(As a Korean you know your own history and bring instances from your historical legacy, so too I know about my historical
legacy most) I don’t know if you had in your history many instances of figures of similar personality, but I can say about our
history that there were many heroes of similar attributes. The distinguishing property of Lee Sun-sin was that many good
attributes were gathered in his spirit. In addition to his being a martial genius, he was thoughtful towards his soldiers and
people. In history we see some talented genius figures; however they use people for their own fame and benefit. They couldn’t
be beloved of their nations. Having a good character and talent at the same time as a leader is not seen in every historical
figures. Surely he (admiral Yi) was a humble patriot, after having tortured because of false accusations; he consented to start
again from the beginning as a plain soldier in order to serve his nation; although being demoted to such a plain degree from
admiralship was worse than death for Korean generals at that time. I think he refused king’s command to lay an ambush in
dangerous shores (that command was given on the false information given by a japanese spy) because he afraid to harm his
fleet. Although he knew that refusing king°Øs command will lead him to troubles and punishment (as happened) he sacrificed
himself for benefit of his people, his soldiers. (I mean the event on which he was arrested and punished in 1597).

He was very brave; his fighting amongst his soldier proves this. Similarly in Ottomans time, Sultans were fighting in battles with
soldiers. (This tradition continued until the great Suleiman). Surely this keeps up morale of his soldiers. Moreover he was very
innovative person, designing such a two or three decked armored ship, that is the turtle ship, is outstanding in comparison with
his time. But the strange point is that; he was not an educated person to be a commander. There was no naval training facility
in Joseon times. So being successful in war tactics and planning good fighting strategy to such a degree is unusual. If there was
no admiral Yi, perhaps map of the world might have been different than today’s Well, he was a gift to Koreans from God.
Because neither generals of his time, nor his successors achieved what he accomplished. This is also strange. The general Won
Gyun couldn’t be successful against Japanese navy as admiral Yi could. And after his death, his ! reforms disappeared soon. If
Japan was successful in its invasion of Korea, perhaps they may have reached to even Russia of today. Anyway, he was victim
of some selfish and jealous people.
Well, that’s all for now. If you want me to write more, or something specific, tell me.

I hope I could assist you.


Take care and have a nice day.

Nurullah > From red land.


84 VANKY introduces him

Dear my friend, Heiko!

Hello~~ Wie geht es dir? 잘지내니? Hi, how are you my friend, heiko?? How long do you sleep nowadays? I hope you have a good
sleep like a Marmot. The sun stays longer in the sky. Summer is coming. You know we’ve had good friiendship since summer in 2005.
Wow, it’s almost 3 years. So we should have some celebration together. For our celebration, I would like to talk to you... about cool
and exciting story!! I would like to introduce a coooool and handsome guy in Old Korean History.

Can U remember that I said to you Korea has very sad and tragic history in early 1900.
My country was a colony of japan. Before that period, Korea was attacked by other countries. Because Korean territory is a
“peninsula”. I know you are a smart boy. And you are much better than me about war stuffs. So I can guess you know this fact.
Originally sea was one of the most important parts in old age. Korea has 3 sides of sea and it is linked with Chinese continent. The
local position of Korea was important in old days. There wasn’t only airplane at all, as eveyrbody knows. So Korean peninsula was
easy to be attacked by the other countries. However, in an old proverb, there appread surely a great man in the most difficult
situation. Korea had a very smart and cool general in middle of 1500. His name was Ysun sin.

There is his picture. Does he look brave and powerful?? I brought them from my friend linked my blog.
We can’t know his face. But famous pointers drew his portrait, after he was dead. Which one do you like, my friend?

Who is Yi Sun-sin?
Yi Sun-sin(이순신) was one of the most famous and greatest generals in Joseon dynasty(july 1392-August 1910).He was a Korean
naval leader and he made his victories against the Japanese navy during 1592-1598. We call it Imjin war(임진왜란). It was the time
of Japan invasion. - I searched it from wikipedia, my friend I added my own explanation for you:)

Here is a map of his battle during his life.


Today I would like to introduce you. “1. The battle of okpo” and “8. The battle of Hansando”. I brought some information and the
map from VANK website. Http://yisunsin.prkorea.com If you would like to know more information, Visit the site whenever U want.
There is a good explanation for you. This paragraph is also from VANK. But I also added my own explanation for you in detail.

“1. The battle of Okpo”


It was the first his(Yi Sun-sin) battle against Japanese fleet during Imjin war period. He sent spy ships to eastern sea off Busan port.
He didn’t depart his naval base until he confirmed Japanese fleet’s scale and tactics. On May 7, his fleet and Won gyun’s fleet
departed together and sailed to okpo port. Japanese fleet disembarked from their ships and was plundering villages near by okpo
port. Japanese embarked quickly after they found Joseon fleet. Admiral Yi waited until all Japanese boarded and ordered to
discharge guns. His fleet was in a formation of Iljajin which ships position a line east-to-west. He didn’t use boarding tactics, which
were very common at that time. He ordered to bombard guns against Japanese ships. This battle became first victory of Joseon
while Joseon army couldn’t attain in land.

I thought his strategy was very clever. The story is like a Fantasy novel, isn’t it? it’s dramatic and exciting!! My favorite one is “8.The
battle of hansando”. There was the most dramatic and cool strategy of Yi.

I also added my own detail for you in this paragraph.


VANKY introduces him to the world 85

Although, Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered their navy to be united and attack Joseon navy together, Wakisaka Yasuharu decided to
defeat Yi’s fleet by himself. On July 7, his fleet was departed from the Japanese headquarter in Jinhae. When Wakisaka’s fleet
arrived near by Geojedo island, his fleet anchored off Gyeonnaeryang. On the other hand, a shepherd reported that Japanese
fleet was anchoring at Gyeonnaeryang to Joseon fleet. Joseon fleet decided to entice Japanese fleet from there to the open sea,
because that sea is shallow and it was hard to change body of main warship, Panokseon. Furthermore, Japanese tended to
abandon ships and retreat to the island if they reach an impasse in the middle of battle.

On July 8, 5~6 ships went to Gyeonnaeryang while remaining ships were poised to attack off Hansando island. Joseon squadron
enticed Japanese and poised to retreat from there, Japanese followed them. Squadron arrived at the open sea and joined Joseon
fleet. Admiral Yi ordered to make his famous tactic, Hakikjin, crane wing formation. Joseon warships discharged guns and 2~3
Japanese warships in front line were sunken by this attack. Joseon fleet attacked flagship first and surrounded them. Wakisaka
drove 14 ships and retreated.

This is “Hakikjin”, crane wing formation. I love this clever idea. You can see Hansando island,too.... in this map. Cranes are very good
birds in Korea. They are white, it means never-changed and pure mind. Sometimes I think about Old people’s wisdom. They were
very genius. They made the first from nothing!! It’s so wonderful. I respect them.

“Panokseon and Turtle ship(Geobukseon)”


Above all I love turtle ship he made. Here is the turtle ship he invented. I brought following paragraph from this site. You can visit
here, if you want more about this. Panokseon was the import ship with turtle ship. It assisted the turtle ships. I searched the pics on
the internet encyclopedia for you. Does the turtleship look like a turtle? I downloaded more informations from the website I told U
right now! And I added my explanation because I wanna help your understanding.:)

The turtle ship first appeared in 1413(King Taejong reign, 13th Joseon Dynasty King) according to the record of history and was
rebuilt as a armed warship by Yi in 1592. Turtle ship was equipped with Dragon’s head and Turtle’s body. The roof of the Turtle
ship was covered with sharp iron spikes which prevented enemy soldiers from boarding and the part holes were designed in order
for the crew to look outside.(Personally I love the design of roof. It looks interesting.) But the enemy could not see inside of the
Turtle ship. The ship rowed 16 oars and made two sails, and the dragon-shaped head sent out smoke of burning sulfur powder in
order to hide itself and confuse enemy fleet. The Turtle ship was 37m long, 6.8m wide and weighted 150 tons. The Turtle ship was
a product of the brilliant creativity of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, who defeated the Japanese fleet during Imjin war. I am sure that “Necessity
is the mother of invention”.

Famous people remain famous words.


This is my words ^^;;;;; It’s just my opinion. Do not care about this title, Heiko
“Those who seek death shall live. Those who seek life shall die.”

Yi’s statement to his generals on the eve of the battle of Myeongryang, stressing that they be mentally strong in battle:On the next
day, Yi and his generals desperately fought against overwhelming odds, 13-133(number of battleships), and triumphed(Nanjung
Ilgi, September 15, 1597;Yi’s war diary).

from Choi Eun-young


86 VANKY introduces him

Dear Eun-young

how are you? 잘 지내? I'm very fine. 잘 지내. :) I also hope you are ok

and healthy as well. 네가 건강하고 잘 되기를 바래. :)

It's fantastic we are friends since nearly three years. 우리가 친구라서행복해요! :)

So I'm very happy you introduce me more famous Korean stories and persons for our celebration. :)

Thank you very very much for your explanations about Yi Sun-sin. :) It was very interesting to read and I learnt a lot from your

text. While I read it I felt very excited and fascinated. The pictures in the text were also very helpful for a better understanding. :)

Yi Sun-sin was really a great general and naval commander with very good tactic skills. His victories were very spectacular and

dramatic for me. He was a great hero in this time. His pictures really looks brave and powerful. Especially the second and third

one. On the first picture he looks like a very wise man for me.

The two famous phrases of him you showed me sounds very brave and powerful as well. Both are very interesting for me.

Especially the second one is very exciting and impressive, because he didn't want to demotivate others because of his death.

I'm very glad you introduced me his story and interesting facts about him. Thank you very much. :)

I also learnt very much about the turtle ship. I think I heard the name "turtle ship" before but didn't know informations about that.

So thanks a lot for the introduction Young. :) After watching the pictures I also understood why it got that name. :) The

construction of that ship looks very interesting for me.

Thanks a lot as well for the website links you told me. They were very helpful for me and I bookmarked all.

I also want to introduce you more culture about Germany. It's always a pleasure for me to tell you cultural things about my

country. :) Same like you from Korea.^^ Thank you so much my friend. :)

Nice greetings to Korea.

From your German friend,

Heiko
Publisher VANK, Voluntary Agency Network of Korea is non-profit, non-governmental
organization founded in Korea. VANK has been dedicated to developing friendships
between Koreans and foreigners and promoting Korea’s national image to the world.
Our organization’s vision for Korea is Hub of Asia, Gateway to Northeast Asia, a country
where you can share friendships and dreams. VANK’s Korean members are cyber
diplomats who introduce various information about Korea to the world. International
members also join VANK’s website. VANK welcomes all of you, especially who want to
know more about Korea through true friendship with Koreans.

Website : http://www.prkorea.org Email : webmaster@prkorea.org


TEL. +82-2-921-3591 FAX. +82-2-921-3593

Sponsor Gyeonsangnamdo Province is located in southernmost of Korean peninsula.


Its area is 10,521km2 and it possesses 10.6% territory of South Korea. The population
of our province is about 3,172,000 and it enjoys beautiful sea scenery of south sea.
Gyeonsangnamdo Province has successfully preserved many heavenly-blessed natural
treasures such as the Hallyeosudo National Marine Park, three major national mountain
parks (i.e., Jirisan, Deogyusan and Gayasan), temples (e.g., Haeinsa and Tongdosa)
with internationally acclaimed reputations and other historic relics handed down over
the centuries. For instance, there are historical sites where the admiral Yi Sun-sin had
his last naval battle which ended with his army's victory from the invasion war of
Japanese, Imjin war about 410 years ago.

Furthermore, Gyeonsangnamdo Province has a potential to become a maritime hub of


logistics, industries, and tourism in northeast Asia as it now opens to the pacific with
strong industrial bases and abundant natural resources.

Website : http://www.gsnd.net E-mail : webmaster@gsnd.net


TEL. +82-55-211-4882 FAX. +82-2-211-4859

You might also like