Yi I (26 December, 1536-1584) was one of the two most prominent Korean Confucian scholars of the Joseon Dynasty, the other being his older contemporary, Yi Hwang (Toegye). Yi I is often referred to by his pen name Yulgok ("Chestnut valley"). His mother was Sin Saimdang, an accomplished artist and calligraphist.
Yi I was born on 26 December 1536 in Bukpyeong, in Gangwon Province. He was a child prodigy who knew Chinese script at the age of three and composed poems in Classical Chinese before he had reached his seventh birthday. By the age of seven, he had finished his lessons in the Confucian Classics, and he passed the Civil Service literary examination at the age of 13.
At the age of 29, Yi I passed a higher Civil Service examination—with full marks—and he started government service. His winning thesis, titled Cheondochaek, was widely regarded as a literary masterpiece, displaying his knowledge of history and the Confucian philosophy of politics, and also reflecting his profound knowledge of Taoism.
More on [ Yi I ]
Neo Confucianism :: Confucianism
Korean Philosophy :: Eastern Philosophy

History of Tae Kwon Do: Yulgok - Concise biography of this Korean thinker.
Ojukheon Municipal Museum - Place where Yulgok and his mother, Shin Saimdang, lived. Information on buildings, exhibits, and history.
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Yul-Gok - Illustrated biography.
Yulgok Yi I (1536-1584) - Bibliography of primary and secondary sources in various languages.
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