Introduction

Japan started the Imjin Waeran in the fourth month of 1592 by invading Choson with the ultimate motive of conquering Ming China and thereby launched an international war in Northeast Asia. This chapter examines the major naval engagements during the early phase of the invasion, and considers the activities of both naval powers during the peace negotiations. It explores the background, the process, and the historical implications of major battles such as those at Chillchollyang, Myongnyang, and Noryang during the second invasion. The Choson navy played a very important role in overcoming the national crisis brought on by the Imjin Waeran. The Myongnyang battle, fought on the sixteenth day of the ninth month, 1597, was an important naval battle in which a Choson force destroyed the Japanese navy as it capitalized on its victories at the beginning of the second invasion and attempted to advance into the West Sea.