The odds were against Korea in a maritime war, but Admiral Yi Sun-sin was victorious with just a handful of ships. During the Joseon Dynasty, the Imjin War with Japan erupted from 1592 to 1598. Imagine the feeling of being overpowered when the admiral’s fleet of 12 ships faced Japan’s 333 naval vessels.
Consider the major winning factor of this feat, Yi’s resurrection of a design of a vessel known as the turtle ship or geobukseon. Clad in iron with deadly spikes to hinder boarding, this practically impenetrable floating war machine was powered by rowers and sails.
Each ship was equipped with an impressive armament of cannons, smokescreen production and flame-throwing capabilities that more than compensated for its slow speed. Yi’s ships overwhelmed Japan’s wooden junks, which weren’t as agile. As a last recourse, the tough ships could be used as battering rams. Look for a replica of the turtle ship at the base of the statue.
Yi stands defiantly with a large sword in the middle of Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square. The statue is surrounded by the 12:23 Fountain, referring to 23 battles Yi had using 12 turtle ships. The 56-foot-tall (17-meter) bronze statue was erected in 1968. The dancing fountain surrounding the statue is a very attractive feature of the area when it is illuminated during the evening.
Under the plaza visit the museum that is partially dedicated to Yi’s military attributes. He was undefeated until his death in 1598.
The statue is a popular place for citizens to bring attention to national and international public affairs. It is surrounded by a major shopping district. Find Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s Statue in Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul’s Jongno district. Admission to the museum is free.
A short distance away in this area you’ll also find a statue of King Sejong the Great, as well as Gyeongbokgung Palace.
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