Yi Hwang, The Most Influential Korean Philosopher Despite 500 Years Have Passed - His Portrait Is on 1000 Won Currency

Kapanlagi.com - KLovers must have heard the name Aristotle. He is the most influential scholar and philosopher in Greece. Aristotle contributed to Greek Philosophy which developed into a comprehensive Western philosophy system. This Greek philosopher is also known as Alexander the Great.

In Korean history, there is a figure who is also compared to Aristotle. He is Yi Hwang, the most prominent scholar and teacher of the most powerful ruler. Similar to the Greek philosopher, Yi Hwang contributed to creating and developing Eastern philosophy.

1. Influential Figure Despite Being 500 Years Old

Yi Hwang © Wikipedia

Many rulers of the Joseon Dynasty wanted him as their teacher to gain his wisdom. One of Yi Hwang's students was Ryu Seong Ryong, who was a scholar and official of the Joseon Dynasty. He held many responsibilities, including the position of Head of the Council of State in 1592.

Ryu Seong Ryong became a great leader in society who saved the nation during a crisis. Yi Hwang's teachings and spirit still exist throughout Korean society even after 500 years.

2. Teachings and Spirit of Yi Hwang Known Worldwide

The Figure of Yi Hwang on 1000 Won © Wikipedia

Just like Aristotle, the lessons and philosophy of the owner of the pen name Toegye spread beyond the borders of Korea. What's even more extraordinary is that many scholars in China and Japan have conducted research on Yi Hwang as a form of tribute and learning.

45 books of 11 types were published during the Edo period under Tokugawa Ieyasu in Japan. These books not only were published, but also had a great influence on the Kimo and Kumamoto Schools, the mainstream of modern Confucianism. In addition, Liang Chi Chao, a representative philosopher in China, many people referred to Yi Hwang as 'Yi Buja sayang', which shows how influential Yi Hwang was for philosophers in China.

Yi Hwang's influence is not limited to Japan and China. Many Toegye Yi Hwang research institutes have been established to spread and develop his teachings in the world, including Asia, America, and Europe, indicating that his teachings and influence have now spread worldwide. The figure of Yi Hwang can also be found on the 1000 Won banknote.

(kpl/mit)