Jeong Ki-ryong

Who is Jeong Ki-ryong?

Jeong Ki-ryong was a prominent Korean Army general during the Joseon Dynasty. He fought against the Japanese invasions of Korea, and won the battles of Geochang and Geumsan. He was one of those who recaptured the Sangju castle, captured the Japancese general in Goryeong, and recaptured Seongju, Hapcheon, Uiryeong, Kyungju and Ulsan.

Jeong Ki-ryong was born in Jinju, South Gyeongsang Province in 1562. His original name was Jeong Mu-su. He was the son of Jeong Ho, Fourth State Councillor. In 1586, He passed the military examination and renamed Ki-ryong by the King's command.

In 1590, he got to serve as a drill instructor under the Shin Rip, Commander of the Right Gyeongsangdo. When the war broke in 1592, he got promoted to manager, starting to serve under the Cho Gyeong, Marshal of the Right Gyeongsangdo.

At that time, he has recommended to General Cho Gyeong a scheme to check an advance of Japanese army, as a consequence of complying his artifice, they have destroyed 500 of Japanese army in a Battle of Geochang.