Yi Sun-sin
1545–1598 · Korean (Seoul/Yeosu) · Joseon Dynasty, Japanese Invasions of Korea
Known for: Korea's greatest naval hero—invented the turtle ship and won 23 consecutive naval battles against Japan
Yi Sun-sin is Korea's most revered hero. He defeated the Japanese navy in 23 consecutive battles during the Imjin War (1592-1598) using innovative turtle ships (geobukseon)—armored vessels with iron spikes that were virtually unsinkable.
He was demoted, imprisoned, and tortured due to court intrigue, then reinstated and won more battles. He was killed by a stray bullet in his final battle—his last words: 'The battle is at its height. Do not announce my death.' He won that battle too.
Browse all 1,000 figures by category
Enable JavaScript to view the full "if they lived today" Q&A and personality profile.