The Battle of Hansan Island occurred during the Korean resistance against Japanese invasions in the late 16th century, known as the Imjin War. Admiral Yi Sun-sin, recognized for his strategic brilliance, commanded the Korean Navy, supported by notable generals such as Yi Eok-gi and Won Gyun. The Koreans faced the Japanese fleet, which was well-prepared and motivated during their aggressive expansion. The battle's significance stemmed not only from the immediate military success but also from the broader context of Korean survival against a formidable Japanese invasion led by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

At Hansan Island, Yi Sun-sin employed innovative naval tactics that highlighted the effectiveness of the Korean 'turtle ships', which featured a covered deck and were difficult for the enemy to assault. These ships were instrumental as they provided firepower and protection for the sailors. The battle unfolded through a series of meticulously planned maneuvers where Yi Sun-sin's forces engaged the Japanese at advantageous angles, leveraging the monsoon winds and tide patterns to their favor. This clever use of naval strategy, alongside the natural landscape, culminated in the Koreans decisively defeating their opponents and capturing numerous Japanese ships.

The outcome of the battle had lasting implications, substantially changing the dynamics of the war. With their supply lines severed, the Japanese forces found it increasingly difficult to maintain their operations in Korea. Moreover, the victory at Hansan Island inspired increased resistance among Korean forces and the local population, who rallied around the nationalistic fervor ignited by Yi Sun-sin’s leadership. The battle is often heralded as a turning point in the Imjin War, showcasing the importance of naval power in determining the fate of a nation during wartime.