In 1597, Hidemoto became a highly esteemed figure beneath the Mōri, and, by variable means, was chosen specifically by Toyotomi Hideyoshi to lead the Army of the Right in the Second Invasion of Korea, where he commanded 30,000 soldiers.

With these preparations thus made, Hidemoto and his supporters led the initial Japanese offensive within the Korean province of Gyeongsang.

He gathered his armaments with great immediacy, equipped himself with 15,000 soldiers and stationed his entire army on Mt.

However, to make the circumstances go from detrimental to entirely beneficial, Kikkawa Hiroie, a general of Hidemoto, refused to move against the Eastern forces at the start of the battle.

As Hiroie was the leading general of the army, Hidemoto was prevented from reaching the frontlines, placing him with little other choice than to resentfully retreat without offering his support to the Mitsunari.