1965 South Korea 100 Won – Admiral Yi Sun‑sin & National Pride
The 1965 100 Won note (P‑38a) is a landmark issue from the Bank of Korea, featuring the heroic Admiral Yi Sun‑sin, celebrated for his naval victories against Japan in the late 16th century. With its bold portrait, traditional motifs, and post‑war design language, this note embodies South Korea’s resilience and cultural pride during a period of rapid modernisation.
Historical Context
Issued in 1965, this note reflects South Korea’s efforts to stabilise its economy and assert national identity in the decades following the Korean War. Admiral Yi Sun‑sin was chosen as the central figure to symbolise courage, patriotism, and maritime strength — qualities resonating deeply with the nation’s recovery and growth.
Key Features & Specifications
Pick Number: P‑38a
Denomination: 100 Won
Material: Paper
Issuing Authority: Bank of Korea
Date of Issue: 1965
Size: Approx. 140 × 70 mm
Printer: Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation
Watermark: Bank of Korea emblem
Security Thread: None (early issues lacked embedded threads)
Signature: Bank of Korea Governor
Design Elements
Front: Portrait of Admiral Yi Sun‑sin at left, rendered in strong engraving detail. Korean text and denomination “백원” (100 Won) prominently displayed.
Back: Depicts a turtle ship (Geobukseon), Admiral Yi’s famed warship, symbolising naval innovation and national defence.
Colour Scheme: Brown and olive tones with intricate guilloché patterns.
Security Features
Watermark: Bank of Korea emblem, visible when held to light
Serial Numbers: Printed twice for verification
Design Complexity: Fine engraving and guilloché to deter counterfeiting
Collector’s & Gift Appeal
National hero theme – Admiral Yi Sun‑sin, a symbol of Korean resilience
1965 birth year keepsake – A meaningful memento from mid‑20th century Korea
Post‑war currency history – Reflecting South Korea’s economic recovery era
Naval heritage collectors – Featuring the iconic turtle ship design
Why Collect This Banknote?
The 1965 South Korea 100 Won note is more than currency — it’s a tribute to national pride and resilience, combining heroic portraiture with maritime symbolism. As part of Korea’s transitional currency issues, it remains a timeless highlight for collectors of Asian and world paper money.
