Admiral Yi Sun Shin Statue, Seoul

This majestic statue watches over Sejongro Boulevard, the main street leading to Kyongbuk Palace. Admiral Yi Sun Shin is regarded as a national hero due to his accomplishments as a naval commander in late 1500s conflicts against the Japanese. He improved upon the design of the kobuksan--or ‘turtle ships' as they are nicknamed in English--the first iron-clad ships in the world. He fought and led several battles and is regarded for having exceptional courage and loyalty. The admiral was also a scholar and a writer.