The Legacy of Korea

In Korea’s 5,000-year history, Admiral Yi Sun-sin is considered one of the most respected figures, and his legendary warship, the Turtle Ship, is recognized as a symbol of Korea's shipbuilding technology and military innovation. This book revisits Admiral Yi’s achievements and the legacy of the Turtle Ship, which led to the defeat of approximately 700 Japanese vessels and secured victory in the 16th-century war with Japan. Admiral Yi was able to achieve victory in every battle by developing and operating the Turtle Ship—an armored vessel with cannons capable of firing in all directions from the bow, stern, and both sides, allowing his forces to fire safely from within. Admiral Yi and the Turtle Ship were first introduced to the Western world about 100 years ago during the Japanese colonial period, and figures such as British naval historian Admiral G.A. Ballard and WWII hero B.L. Montgomery helped bring some recognition to his legacy. However, due to a lack of in-depth publications or historical resources available in English-speaking countries, the full historical significance of Yi and the Turtle Ship has not been widely understood internationally.

**The Author’s Dedication and Research Background**

This book is the result of over a decade of research by Dr. Ko Kwang-soob, a retired Navy Captain who graduated from the Korean Naval Academy and served as a professor at the Naval Academy, Naval College, and various marine-related universities. Drawing on Admiral Yi’s war diary, his official battle reports to the king, and the records of the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty, this book provides readers with an in-depth understanding of Admiral Yi and the Turtle Ship. In particular, the book includes recent scientifically backed research findings and newly uncovered insights revealed over the past 50 years by Dr. Ko and other Korean scholars.

**Structure and Content of the Book**

The book is organized into seven chapters. Chapter 1 covers the background of the Imjin War, Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s life, and the unique armament and tactics of the Turtle Ship. Chapter 2 details the major battles that Admiral Yi participated in, including the Battle of Hansan, where he achieved victory using the crane-wing formation. In this chapter, battle situations are depicted on Google Maps based on historical sources, helping readers easily understand the joint tactics of the Turtle Ship and Panokseon. Chapter 3 explores Admiral Yi’s leadership and foresight, as he led his forces through outbreaks of disease and famine, preparing for future battles. Chapter 4 explains the collapse of the Korean Navy under Admiral Won Gyun’s command and Admiral Yi’s eventual reinstatement, including recent research findings that correct historical misunderstandings. Chapter 5 recounts the miraculous Battle of Myeongryang, where Yi defeated over 130 Japanese vessels with only 13 ships, as well as the rebuilding of the Korean Navy. Chapter 6 focuses on the Korea-China allied operations, Yi’s collaboration with Chinese Admiral Chen Lin, and Admiral Yi’s final moments in the Battle of Noryang, summarizing Yi’s strategies and tactics in comparison with modern military guidelines. Chapter 7 reflects on Admiral Yi’s legacy, both as a military leader and as a public servant dedicated to his family and country.

Through this book, the author brings Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s legacy to readers worldwide, celebrating his courage, innovation, and integrity, while offering profound insights into Korean history, culture, and military strategy.