Yun Du-su

Letter of Yun Doo-su

Yun Doo-su(윤두수, 尹斗壽, 1533–1601) was Joseon Dynasty Politician, Poet, Writer, and Neo-Confucian philosophic scholar. He served as the Yeonguijeong (Chief State Councillor) during the reign of King Seonjo. His pen name was Oheum(오음, 梧陰), courtesy name was Jaang (자앙, 子仰). He was follower of Yi Hwang school among Westerners (Hangul: 서인, Korean: Seoin).

Birth

Yun Doo-su was born in 1533 at Hansung (Seoul). His father was Yun Byeon(윤변, 尹忭, 1493–1549), who was government official. His younger brother Yun Geun-su was also major politician during reign of King Seonjo and Gwanghae. His family origin is Haepyeong and his family progenitor was Yun Gun-jeong (윤군정, 尹君正) who served as Pan-gongbusa (Chairman of supreme government office) of Goryeo dynasty during era of Gojong of Goryeo and Wonjong (원종, 元宗, 1219–1274).

Writings

• Oheum-yugo《오음유고》(梧陰遺稿)
• Gizaji《기자지》(箕子誌)
• Seong-in Rok《성인록 成仁錄》
• Pyeong-yang ji《평양지 平壤志》
• Yeon-an ji《연안지 延安志》

As a scholar

As most intelligent mind of Neo-Confucian philosophy, he interacted with masters of Neo-Confucianism school, such as Seong Hon, Song Ik-pil, Yi I, and Yi Hwang.

Most of his writings are written during the Japanese invasions of Korea.

Popular culture

• Portrayed by Jung Dong-hwan in the 2004-2005 KBS1 TV series Immortal Admiral Yi Sun-sin.