Yi Sun-sin

Yi Sun-sin studied naval command and warfare diligently. In 1413, he discovered plans for a simple turtle ship in the archives and initiated its construction after consulting with a local shipbuilder.

Korean records indicate that a cannon-armed ship called a 'Turtle Ship' was under construction as early as 1414. The ship was designed with a castle to protect the crew and mounted with cannon.

Yi Baek-rok, the grandfather of Yi Sun-sin, retired when neo-Confucian reformer Jo Gwang-jo was executed in the Third Literati Purge of 1519.

Yi Sun-sin, a Korean admiral and military general known for his victories against the Japanese navy during the Imjin war, was born in Geoncheon-dong street, Hanseong (present-day Inhyeon-dong, Jung District, Seoul).

In 1576, Yi Sun-sin passed the military examination impressing the judges with his archery skills. However, he initially failed the test due to breaking a leg during the cavalry section but successfully re-entered and passed.

In 1583, Yi Sun-sin lured the Jurchen into battle, emerged victorious, and captured their chief, Mu Pai Nai. This victory showcased Yi's strategic skills and military leadership.

In late 1590, Yi Sun-sin received four military appointments in rapid succession in northern Korea, each carrying greater responsibility than the last, culminating in his appointment as Commander of the Left Jeolla Naval District.

On the 13th day of the 2nd lunar month of 1591 (March 13, 1591), Yi Sun-sin assumed his new post at Yeosu, where he began building up the regional navy and implementing reforms, including the construction of the famous turtle ship.

Yi Sun-sin led the Korean fleet to victory against the Japanese at Okp’o Harbor on June 16, 1592. He destroyed 26 enemy ships and lifted the spirits of King Sonjo.

Yi-Sun Sin led the Korean fleet to victory against the Japanese armada by using strategic tactics and superior naval skills, ultimately destroying the Japanese sea power and cutting off their supplies and reinforcements.

The Korean fleet, led by Admirals Yi Sun-sin and Yi Eok-gi, engaged in a decisive battle against the Japanese fleet at Hansan Island. Using innovative tactics and the 'crane wing' formation, the Korean navy emerged victorious, sinking 47 Japanese ships and capturing 12.

Yi Sun-sin led the Korean fleet to attack the Japanese vessels docked at Busan harbor. After the battle, Yi withdrew his forces due to the absence of a Japanese landing force.

Yi Sun-sin, with less than half of his original ships, laid a trap at Myeongnyang Strait to rebuild the confidence of his demoralized navy. Despite facing a larger Japanese force, Yi's strategic use of the environment and his Turtle Ships led to a decisive victory.

Yi Sun-sin participated in a coordinated sea-land attack on Suncheon Castle, disrupting Japanese supply lines.

Yi Sun-sin, regarded as one of the greatest naval commanders in history, died from a gunshot wound at the Battle of Noryang, the last major battle of the Imjin War.

The title of Samdo Sugun Tongjesa, meaning 'Naval Commander of the Three Provinces', was used for the commander of the Korean navy until 1896. Admiral Yi Sun-sin held this prestigious title for his exceptional leadership and strategic prowess.

Admirer compared Adm. Togo to admirals Horatio Nelson and Yi Sun-sin, with Togo humbly stating that he may be compared to Nelson but not to Korea's Yi Sun-sin, acknowledging Yi's unparalleled reputation.

The book 'Imjin Changch'o: Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s Memorials to Court' edited by Lee Chong-young was published in 1981, containing various memorials and documents related to Admiral Yi Sun-sin.

Park Joong-hoon portrayed Yi Sun-sin in the film, showcasing the admiral's leadership during battles.

An archived site dedicated to Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a revered figure in Korean history known for his naval victories and strategic brilliance.

An official site of Asan city dedicated to Yi Sun-sin, highlighting his contributions and legacy. The site was archived on April 20, 2010.

A project site by VANK focusing on Yi Sun-sin, emphasizing his significant role in transforming Korea. The site was archived on July 11, 2010.

Yoo Dong-geun portrayed Yi Sun-sin in the MBC TV series, showcasing the admiral's valor and military tactics.

A film directed by Kim Han-min focusing on the Battle of Myeongnyang led by Yi Sun-sin. It became the most-watched film in South Korean history.

Yi Sun-sin, a legendary admiral, is known for his remarkable record of never losing a ship in combat and is speculated to have played a role in the creation of the armored ship.

The third film in the trilogy by Kim Han-min, depicting the Battle of Noryang, showcasing Yi Sun-sin's military strategies.

Yi Sun-sin, a renowned admiral, is credited with never losing a single vessel in battle and is believed to have potentially invented the armored ship.