18 Facts About Won Gyun

Won Gyun was a Korean general and admiral during the Joseon Dynasty.

Won Gyun is best known for his campaigns against the Japanese during Hideyoshi's invasions of Korea.

Won Gyun was born in 1540 near Pyeongtaek and demonstrated his skill as warrior at a young age.

Won Gyun was qualified as a military officer and was first assigned to the northern border to defend against the Jurchens, who frequently raided Korean villages.

Won Gyun led many successful campaigns with Yi Il and Yi Sun-sin against the Jurchens.

Won Gyun led successful campaigns along with Yi Il and Yi Sun-sin against the Jurchens.

Won Gyun was promoted to admiral in 1592 and sent to the southern coast of Gyeongsang Province to command the province's Eastern Fleet, with Yi Sun-sin, who became admiral before Won and took command of Jeolla Province's Western Fleet.

Won Gyun decided to begin an expansionist war against Japan's neighbors, beginning with Joseon as the first step to China, then under the Ming Dynasty.

At that point, Won Gyun sank many of his ships in retreat to ensure they would not be captured by invading Japanese forces.

Later, Won Gyun was promoted to an army general, and Yi became naval chief of staff.

Won Gyun knew the information was false and did not advance toward Busan for the same tactical reasons Yi had reported to the royal court before his removal from the post.

Won Gyun lost one of his battleships and its captain during the attack.

Won Gyun did not advance after receiving a letter of protest from the Japanese commander.

Won Gyun finally led the navy towards Busan, along with the admiral Yi Eok Ki, following orders despite tactical considerations.

Won Gyun knew that he would lose the battle but had no choice but to engage.

Won Gyun was considered to be killed in action while running away, when his brother was killed during this battle.

In particular, Won Gyun's earlier successes against the Jurchens have been buried and there is an interest in providing a more objective view of Won Gyun's military career.

Won Gyun's treachery is discovered by Ryu Seong-ryong, and he is arrested.