Hansan: Rising Dragon

Hansan: Rising Dragon, released in 2016, is a South Korean war film directed by Shin Sang-ok's son, Lee Woo-jin. Based on the true story of Yi Sun-sin, the legendary Korean admiral, this movie takes place in the late 16th century, during the Imjin War, when Japan invaded Korea. The film begins with the imposing sight of the Japanese navy, a force that threatens to crush the Korean fleet under its might. The Korean navy, led by Admiral Yi Sun-sin, is vastly outnumbered and outgunned. Admiral Yi, played by the South Korean actor Cho Jin-woong, is a man consumed by his duty to protect his homeland and avenge the defeat of his country. He is depicted as a brilliant strategist and tactician, but also a man with a deep sense of morality and conviction. As the Japanese forces encroach upon Korean waters, Admiral Yi faces a seemingly insurmountable challenge. The Japanese ships are larger and more heavily armed, with the most advanced warships of the time, the "Korei Maru", being showcased in the film. This has the Korean navy at a significant disadvantage, making it all but impossible to defeat them in a conventional naval battle. However, Admiral Yi, a skilled and resourceful commander, refuses to give up. He is determined to save his country from the clutches of the Japanese invaders. With the help of his trusted lieutenant, Choi Chi-young, played by the South Korean actor Yun-shik Baek, Admiral Yi hatches a plan to turn the tide of the battle in their favor. Admiral Yi resorts to using the geobukseon, a secret weapon designed by himself, in order to challenge the Japanese navy. These ship-like watercraft, also known as "dragon head ships," are equipped with a large wooden head in the shape of a dragon. The geobukseon, or "turtle ships," are designed to counter the Japanese "Korei Maru" ships that used fire arrows. The geobukseon, a technological marvel for its time, are armed with cannons, a design feature unique to the Korean turtle ships. These ships prove to be a game-changer in naval warfare. Not only were they resistant to fire arrows, which were a primary tool of the Japanese warships, but they were also capable of repelling enemy attacks with their cannons. Throughout the battle, Admiral Yi's determination and bravery serve as a beacon of hope for his troops. His willingness to try unconventional methods sets an example for his comrades, and soon, his geobukseon ships prove to be a decisive factor in the battle. As the tide of the battle begins to shift in their favor, the Korean forces regain the initiative. The film reaches its climax with a fierce and intense battle between the Korean geobukseon ships and the Japanese "Korei Maru." It's a thrilling sequence, filled with action, suspense, and drama. Despite being outnumbered, the Korean forces manage to fend off their Japanese counterparts, ultimately saving their homeland from the invaders. This epic naval battle serves as the backdrop for the movie's climax, which showcases the courage and determination of Admiral Yi and his troops. The film ends on a somber note, reflecting on the devastating losses suffered during the war. The movie's final scene shows Admiral Yi, wounded but victorious, surveying the aftermath of the battle. Though the war may be over, the scars of defeat and the pain of loss will linger for years to come. Hansan: Rising Dragon is more than just a battle movie; it's a testament to the strength of the Korean spirit, a reminder of the country's history, and an inspiring tribute to the bravery of Admiral Yi Sun-sin. With its epic scope and emotional depth, the film is a compelling and thought-provoking portrayal of a pivotal moment in Korean history.