Korean hero Yi Sun-sin returns
/Courtesy of Onrie Kompan
By Lee Han-soo
Korean hero Yi Sun-sin (also known as Yi Soon-shin), a famous naval commander from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) who thwarted a Japanese invasion during the Imjin War (1592-1598), will come to life, thanks to U.S. cartoonist Kompan.
Titled “Yi Soon Shin: Fallen Avenger,” segments of his latest cartoon have been released on the official site of the upcoming Seoul International Cartoon & Animation Festival on Thursday. The post commemorates Yi Sun-sin Day.
The cartoon covers the famous naval battle of Myeongnyang, where 12 of his ships defeated 330 Japanese warships.
“The hero community is saturated,” Kompan said when asked why he drew the cartoon. “I wanted to draw a real-life hero who people all over the world could relate to, and I believe that is Yi Sun-sin.”
Kompan started his Yi series in 2009 with “Yi Soon Shin: Warrior and Defender.” It has since sold more than 51,000 copies.