Hansan: Rising Dragon

In the summer of 1592, Daimyo Wakisaka Yasuharu arrives in Busan after the chaotic sea battle at Sacheon. His mission is clear: to take control of the Japanese naval base and eliminate the threat posed by the formidable Joseon commander, Yi Sun-sin.

Wakisaka conducts interviews with frightened survivors of the recent battle to gather intelligence on Yi Sun-sin's new battleship, referred to as the 'bokkaisen' and 'mekurabune'. These conversations reveal both the fear it instills and some vulnerabilities in its design.

Meanwhile, Yi Sun-sin gathers his admirals at the Left Jeolla Navy base in Yeosu to discuss their naval strategies. Admiral Won Gyun advocates for a defensive stance in light of the recent Japanese assault, emphasizing caution.

Despite differing opinions, Yi remains steadfast in crafting an innovative strategy called 'Crane Wing'. This bold crescent-shaped formation aims to trap the enemy by attacking from multiple sides, showcasing Yi's audacious tactical mindset.

As Yi begins to gain traction in his plans, Japanese spies infiltrate his base, leading to chaos. They liberate captured comrades, sabotage turtle ships, and steal vital construction documents, posing a significant setback for Yi.

In response to the chaos, Yi travels to Suncheon to consult Na Dae-yong, the inventor of the turtle ships. This meeting underscores the urgency of concealing the ships from Wakisaka until they are ready for deployment.

Wakisaka receives reinforcements led by Katō Yoshiaki and Kuki Yoshitaka, bringing superior ships and artillery to bolster his forces. Together, they plot a vigorous two-pronged attack on the Left Jeolla Navy headquarters.

Unbeknownst to Wakisaka, Yi's skilled agents Lim Jun-young and Jeong Bo-reum have infiltrated his ranks. They provide Yi with crucial information, assisting him in preparing for potential traps set by Wakisaka.

Ignoring Junsa's warnings about an impending ambush, Wakisaka launches a surprise attack on the Joseon forces at Jeonju. In a twist of fate, Junsa is captured by the Righteous Army while seeking help against the assault.

Yi strategically lures Wakisaka into the open waters around Hansan Island. As the two fleets meet, Yi deploys his upgraded turtle ships, preparing for a decisive assault as his commanders act as bait.

During the battle, waves of aggression from Wakisaka threaten to breach the Joseon lines due to the negligence of Admiral Won Gyun. However, Yi quickly adapts, implementing the Crane Wing formation with the turtle ships to counter effectively.

Cornered and overwhelmed, Wakisaka's forces suffer a devastating defeat in the skirmish. The previously confident commander finds himself injured and adrift as his ships are shattered by Yi's decisive tactics.

In a final desperate attempt, Wakisaka tries to ram Yi's flagship but is met with an arrow from Yi, further debilitating him. This moment marks a critical turning point, leading to his complete downfall.

On land, the Righteous Army successfully defends the passage from Wakisaka's forces amidst the chaos, but they lose their commander, Hwang Bak. The bravery displayed during the onslaught adds to Yi's momentum.

After securing a hard-fought victory, Yi prepares to establish a new base on Hansan Island, a testament to his resilience and unwavering resolve. This victory serves to halt further Japanese naval engagements for the time being.