Admiral Yi Sunsin as a Reflection of Korean Values

"He who seeks death will live, and he who seeks life will die."

So proclaimed Admiral Yi Sunsin, legendary Korean naval commander from the late 16th century. Although not well known in the West, Admiral Yi Sunsin is a celebrated national hero of Korea and probably the greatest naval commander to have ever lived. With an impeccable record of 23 wins in his 23 battles - many of which were fought outnumbered by enemy ships - Admiral Yi has achieved a feat which no one in either modern or ancient history can match. As such, Yi Sunsin is one of the greatest historical Korean figures, and was voted as the single best figure by 43.8% of respondents to a 2005 survey by Soonchunhyang University.

Famous leaders are admired for many different reasons - some for their stoicism and determination, others for their compassion and inspiration. The celebrated heroes of a certain culture can thus be expected to exemplify those qualities which are most esteemed by that culture. Along the same lines, considering the popular support of Admiral Yi, he can likely be considered a good representative of Korean values. I'd like to argue that Yi Sunsin's qualities are therefore likely a good representation of the values of Korean culture.

In one pamphlet (Admiral Yi Sunsin: A brief overview of his life and achievements published by Diamond Sutra Recitation Group), Admiral Yi is described as possessing "pure and absolute loyalty," "brilliant use of strategy and tactics," "invincible courage", "unbending integrity," and is even described as no less than "a miracle." These themes - loyalty, intelligence, bravery, integrity - are presented continually throughout the 88 pages of the pamphlet. In addition, it is repeatedly mentioned that Admiral Yi fought not to stretch Korea's imperial reach but to defend his country against foreign invaders, and that he fought for his country even after the king betrayed him. He is therefore always true to his country and does not let personal vendettas (if he is even harboring any) or quests for personal glory stand in the way of his allegiance. In his diary, Admiral Yi also recognizes all of the officers and men who fought below him and attributes his victories to the "united strength of commanders, sailors, and local officials." Thus, Yi Sunsin exhibits neither vanity nor a desire for fame, and instead is modest and unendingly loyal to his troops. He is also mentioned as having overcome hardship - in the form of betrayals by fellow officers, unjust demotions to his rank, and economic troubles - and continually striving to persevere even against unthinkable odds (such as the Battle of Myongnyang when Admiral Yi's ships were outnumbered 10 to 1 by the Japanese).

In my estimation, it appears that some of the most revered traits in Korean culture are a steadfast loyalty to country, intelligence, courage, modesty, unending perseverance, and integrity. Since many of these traits are often valued in other cultures, I find it interesting that the main focus is often Admiral Yi's uncompromising loyalty to Korea. Though many famous leaders are shadowed by their quests for glory, domination, and fame, or indulgent personal lives, Yi Sunsin is portrayed almost as having transcended these desires in his quest to defend and ultimately sacrifice his life for his country. I think that it is very interesting that as Korean pop culture is pushing to promote Korean history and tradition, one of it's greatest heroes - and the star character of a popular TV drama - exhibits the same loyalty to Korea as the drama, for example, is likely hoping to instill in its viewers.

My question, then, is whether you think that Yi Sunsin's extreme loyalty to Korea is more of a "propaganda" push which is embellished by Korean pop culture or if the reason Yi Sunsin is so popular is simply for his loyalty and his achievements? This is sort of a "chicken and egg" question, but I'm interested to see what reactions there are to the idea that perhaps Admiral Yi had motivation other than his love of country, and that popular media could be exaggerating his patriotism to win favor with the public (and in the case of the TV drama, more viewership).