SEOUL: "Noryang: Deadly Sea," directed by Kim Han-min, is the final installment in his trilogy about Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a revered naval figure in South Korean history. The movie, which begins and ends with the deaths of two pivotal figures in East Asia's history, depicts the dramatic and deadly Battle of Noryang, the last naval clash between Japan and the allied forces of the Joseon and Ming dynasties.

Set on December 16, 1598, the film portrays the fierce conflict that led to significant casualties, more than any other battle in the seven-year war. The Japanese forces, with reduced military strength and focused on survival, faced off against Yi Sun-sin, who was driven by a personal vendetta and a mission to decisively end the war. Actor Kim Yoon-seok delivers a powerful portrayal of Admiral Yi, embodying his resolve and strategic acumen, effectively communicating his character through minimal dialogue. The film dramatically showcases Yi's final moments, including his famous last words to maintain morale among his troops, "Do not announce my death."

The 2.5-hour epic, which devotes 1 hour and 40 minutes to night battle scenes, immerses viewers in the deadliest naval warfare of Asia that concluded the Imjin War. Despite the complexity of the story, with multiple languages and detailed explanations of the historical context, the movie promises to be an engaging cinematic experience, showcasing the director's decade-long dedication to Admiral Yi's life and legacy. "Noryang: Deadly Sea" is set for release in local theaters on Wednesday.