[1] The strait's original name was the native Korean term Uldolmok, which refers to reported loud sounds made by its rapid currents.

[1] The strait has proved important at several points in Korean history.

The seclusion it provided allowed the Sambyeolcho Rebellion to take refuge here in 1271.

[citation needed] In 1597, during the Imjin War, the Korean admiral, Yi Sun-sin, achieved a decisive victory in the Battle of Myeongnyang although he was massively outnumbered by the Japanese fleet.

[3][1] Tidal forces mean that the currents of the Myeongnyang Strait reverse direction roughly every three hours.