Quick Facts
Biography
Kim Isabu was a general and politician of Silla during the 6th century. He was also known as Taejong. He is best remembered today for his role in subjugating the island nation of Usan-guk, which some Koreans believe included the disputed Liancourt Rocks (Dokdo in Korean, Takeshima in Japanese). Although frequently referred to as "Isabu", his family name is written as Kim in the Samguk Sagi. He was the 4th generation descendant of King Naemul, which also provides direct proof that his family name was Kim.
But in Samguk Yusa, his name is Park I-Jong (朴伊宗).
Career
During the reign of Jijeung, in 505, Isabu was appointed the governor (gunju) of Siljik province, modern-day Samcheok. It was as governor of the wider region of Haseulla (later known as Gangwon) that he came to launch the expedition against Usan seven years later.
Later in life, Isabu rose to supreme military power in Silla, holding this position from 541 to 562. During this time, he saw the expansion of Silla's territory into former Baekje and Goguryeo holdings, reaching as far north as present-day Hamgyong. In addition, he ordered the subjugation of Daegaya, effectively putting an end to the Gaya confederacy and consolidating Silla's hold on southeastern Korea.