By 1100, large Chinese junk ships, equipped with watertight bulkheads and sternpost rudders, emerged as formidable warships in naval conflicts across East Asia. These innovations in shipbuilding enhanced the durability and maneuverability of junks, allowing for more effective naval engagements. The prominence of Chinese junks in maritime warfare reflected the advanced technological capabilities of the time and their influence on regional trade and military strategies.

Chinese junk ships played a significant role in naval conflicts, with Song and Ming records celebrating their prowess in maritime adventures. Poets like Su Shi and Li Bai incorporated themes of exploration and the beauty of the sea into their works, enriching Chinese literary traditions.