Korean Dictionary
How to say "Admiral Yi Sun-sin" in Korean
“Admiral Yi Sun-sin” in Korean is 이순신 (pronounced "i sunsin").
이순신
i sunsin
Usage & Context
Admiral Yi Sun-sin (1545–1598) is one of Korea greatest national heroes. He developed the turtle ship (거북선) and defended Korea against Japanese invasions during the Imjin War. His statue stands prominently in Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul.
Example Sentence
이순신 장군은 한국 역사에서 가장 위대한 영웅이에요.
Admiral Yi Sun-sin is the greatest hero in Korean history.
How to use 이순신 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Admiral Yi Sun-sin” is 이순신, romanized as i sunsin.
Usage tip
Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 이순신.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, 이 (i), sounds like the 'ee' in 'see'. 순 (sun) rhymes with 'soon', but with a slightly softer 's' sound. 신 (sin) sounds like 'shin' as in your leg, not the English 'sin'. The stress is fairly even across the syllables.
More Example Sentences
Describing a famous landmark in Seoul.
이순신 장군 동상은 광화문에 있어요.
Admiral Yi Sun-sin's statue is in Gwanghwamun.
Discussing popular Korean media.
역사 드라마에서 이순신 장군 이야기가 자주 나와요.
Admiral Yi Sun-sin's story often appears in historical dramas.
Reflecting on historical figures' impact.
이순신 장군의 리더십은 오늘날에도 많은 영감을 줍니다.
Admiral Yi Sun-sin's leadership still inspires many today.
Cultural Context
Yi Sun-sin is arguably the most revered historical figure in Korea, often seen as a symbol of national resilience and strategic genius. His image is ubiquitous, from the 100-won coin to the prominent statue in Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul. He's a central figure in numerous historical dramas and films, such as 'The Admiral: Roaring Currents,' which is one of Korea's highest-grossing films. Koreans learn about his exploits from a young age, and his name evokes deep pride and respect.
Editorial note
We review entries like 이순신 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
이순신 장군님.
Admiral Yi Sun-sin (respectful address).
이순신 장군의 거북선.
Admiral Yi Sun-sin's turtle ship.
이순신 장군처럼 용감하게.
As brave as Admiral Yi Sun-sin.
Related Expressions
거북선
geobukseon
Turtle ship (his famous invention)
임진왜란
imjin waeran
Imjin War (the war he fought in)
장군
janggun
General/Admiral
명량해전
myeongnyang haejeon
Battle of Myeongnyang (his most famous victory)
More Korean History Words
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