이순신장군동상, Statue in Mokpo, South Korea

The Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin stands on the lower slopes of Yudalsan in Mokpo. It depicts the admiral in a dynamic pose, with his left hand gripping a sword and his body tilted slightly, giving a sense of motion.

The statue was erected on August 15, 1974, funded by citizen donations and supported by a committee of 209 members. It was the first Admiral Yi statue to be officially registered by the Ministry of Culture and Public Information.

The inscription on the pedestal, composed by Lee Eun-sang, recalls the 107 days Admiral Yi spent at Gohado preparing for battle. Visitors often pause here to read the words and take in the view over the sea.

The statue is reached by climbing the first set of stairs at the entrance of Yudalsan. The area around it is paved and easy to walk, with signs that help visitors find their way.

The statue is intentionally tilted about 0.5 degrees toward Japan, a detail meant to keep watch over the country and weaken its energy. Some also say the tilt captures the moment the admiral draws his sword.