Gwak Jae-u

Gwak Jae-u (1552–1617) was a celebrated civilian militia commander during the Imjin War, famous for raising the first Uibyeong (Righteous Army) and wearing distinctive red robes in combat, earning him the nickname "The Red-Robe General" (Hong-ui Janggun).

Raising the First Civilian Militia

Born in Uiryong, Gyeongsang Province, Gwak Jae-u passed the civil exam in 1585 but had his qualification annulled due to critical essays. When the Japanese invasion began in May 1592 and official government armies disintegrated, Gwak Jae-u used his own family fortune to recruit volunteer militia troops. Just nine days after the Japanese landing, he raised the first Righteous Army, inspiring civilian volunteer resistance across the country.

Guerrilla Warfare and the Red Robes

Gwak Jae-u excelled in unconventional guerrilla warfare. Dressed in brilliant red silk robes made by his wife, he created decoys and ambushes in the tall reed marshes along the Nakdong and Nam Rivers. By deploying false troops, surprise night raids, and disguising his men as red-robed commanders on fast horses, he demoralized the Japanese army under Ankokuji Ekei. His guerrilla tactics successfully blocked Japanese forces from penetrating Jeolla Province through the river corridors, preserving essential grain supplies for Joseon.

Post-War Seclusion and Legacy

After contributing to the defense of Jinju and the overall war effort, Gwak Jae-u received official appointments from the court. However, disillusioned by political factionalism and the tragic execution of fellow militia leaders, he resigned his posts and retired to a peaceful life of seclusion at Mangwoojeong pavilion by the river. He is honored as a symbol of self-sacrificing civilian patriotism.