Yi So-yeon is a South Korean biosystems engineer who became the first Korean to fly into space. In April 2008 she travelled to the International Space Station aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft, where she carried out scientific experiments during her mission.

Her flight made her a national hero overnight, a role she found surprising and sometimes harder than spaceflight itself. Her quotes are humble and honest, covering science, fame and life as a woman in engineering.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about Yi So-yeon and these famous quotes.

Who is Yi So-yeon?

Yi So-yeon is a South Korean engineer and the first Korean astronaut to travel to space.

When did Yi So-yeon go to space?

She flew to the International Space Station in April 2008 aboard the Soyuz TMA-12 spacecraft.

What did Yi So-yeon do on the ISS?

She carried out scientific experiments during her roughly 11-day mission.

What is Yi So-yeon's most famous quote?

A well-known line is "I'd say fame is much harder" than flying to space.

Is Yi So-yeon the only Korean astronaut?

She remains the only South Korean to have flown to space as of her mission's history.