General Yi Sun Shin Statue (이순신)
General Yi Sun Shin Statue (이순신)
Admiral Yi Sun-sin in the Middle of Seoul
Right in the middle of Seoul, surrounded by all this car traffic, tall buildings, tourists, and busy city streets, I saw a figure from a very different time in Korean history.
Admiral Yi Sun-sin looks out across Gwanghwamun Square, sword in hand, appearing as though he is still watching over the city. I'm sure you've heard of the guy at least once in your life.
He was a Korean naval commander that lived during the Joseon Dynasty. He is best remembered for his role in defending Korea during the Japanese invasions of 1592–1598. At a time when Korea was facing an extremely serious threat, Yi Sun-sin led the Korean navy in a number of important battles.
Today, he is considered one of the greatest military heroes in Korean history!
The statue is about 17 meters in height.
Nearby, you can see a model of a turtle ship, which is a Korean warship by Yi Sun-sin. There are also large drums beside the statue. Yi Sun-sin lived more than 400 years ago, yet his statue stands tall in remembrance.
King Sejong the Great's statue is just a short distance away, and Gyeongbokgung Palace is also nearby.
I think the obvious message is even though modern day people are coming and going and being really busy and stuff, we shouldn't forget history, and that's why the statue is like right smack dab in the middle of downtown Seoul.