Chapter 9: Joseon Dynasty

Besides being remembered as a tactical genius, Admiral Yi is also remembered as a man of personal integrity. His posthumous title, Ch'ungmu-kong (Lord of Loyalty and Chivalry) is used in Korea's third highest military honor, the Order of Ch'ungmu. He believed in three essentials for the warrior: humility, discernment, and courage. He embodied all of them, and lived with integrity throughout his life. When Admiral Son Ko-i died in 1598, a letter was found among his possessions. It was from Admiral Yi Sun-shin, and in it he wrote, "My life is simple, my food is plain, and my quarters are uncluttered. In all things, I have sought clarity. I face the troubles and problems of life and death willingly. Virtue, integrity, and courage are my priorities. I can be approached, but never pushed; befriended but never coerced; killed but never shamed." Admiral Yi Sun-shin is truly one of the great warriors of the past, and his legacy and teachings are a blueprint for success for any modern martial artist and warrior. His patriotism and integrity can be a role model for all. There is a statue of Admiral Yi Sun-shin in the middle of Sejongno in downtown Seoul, next to the Kyobo building.

The Manchus invaded Korea in 1627 AD. The invasion was not welcomed but at least it left the country relatively independent of China, who had exacted tribute from the people and kept the Korean government weak.

From the late 17th to the early 19th century, Korea began a period of isolation, closing her borders to all foreigners in an attempt to secure some peace. Korea became known as the "Hermit Nation" because it turned away foreigners, particularly the Europeans who were expanding their own empires during this time. Toward the end of the 19th century, Korea set up relations with many western nations in an effort to offset Japanese influence.