TV-Series
Description
Ik Soo is a supporting character in Yona of the Dawn, known for his role as the high priest of the Kouka Kingdom. His life took a dramatic turn when he was cast out of Hiryuu Castle as a young man during the exile of all priests, an order carried out by Yu-Hon. Following this banishment, he lived a life of isolation, largely due to a false reputation of possessing great riches. In truth, he is poor and unemployed, spending his days in quiet prayer, asking the gods for guidance and for the happiness of the people.

In terms of personality, Ik Soo is portrayed as a clumsy and optimistic individual. His physical appearance is distinctive, characterized by curly hair typically tied in a plait, with a long fringe that often covers his violet-colored eyes. Despite his status as a holy man, he is notably inept at practical daily tasks, which necessitates a caregiver. This role falls to his young protégé, Yoon, who often acts more as Ik Soo's guardian than the other way around due to the priest's tendency to trip on flat ground and general inability to manage himself carefully.

Ik Soo's primary motivation stems from his deep connection to the divine. His role is to receive and convey the voice of the gods to the people of Kouka. He is best known for delivering a critical prophecy to the exiled Princess Yona and her companion Hak. This prophecy revealed that a period of darkness had fallen upon the land and instructed Yona to seek out the four legendary dragon warriors, descendants of warriors who served the first king, Hiryuu. According to the prophecy, once the four dragons were gathered, a sword and shield would awaken to protect the king, and the red dragon would restore the dawn.

His most significant relationship is with Yoon, whom he saved from a life of loneliness in a desolate, ruined village. Ik Soo served as a father figure to the orphaned boy, teaching him how to survive and encouraging his hunger for knowledge. Although their relationship involves bickering, they share a deep bond of care and loyalty. Despite knowing he would be lonely, Ik Soo made the pivotal decision to send Yoon away with Yona and Hak. He recognized that his young charge needed to see the world and achieve his dream of becoming a doctor, rather than spending his life as a caretaker for a helpless priest.

While he does not undergo significant development himself within the main story, his actions serve as a catalyst for the development of others. By trusting in the prophecy and selflessly parting with Yoon, he enables the core group to form. His abilities are spiritual rather than combative. He is able to receive prophecies from the gods, though conveying the voice of god is described as taking a lot out of him, often leaving him physically collapsed afterward. He also demonstrated an ability to teach practical skills, as it was from him that Yoon learned to make items like straw shoes.