Want to learn about a country’s history? Immersion into cultural art and local crafts is one of the best ways to broaden your knowledge. While visiting Seoul, a great way to learn about the country’s history is to try traditional Korean crafts.
One thing I love about living in Korea is having access to activities that, while new to me, are sometimes thousands of years old. Both preservation efforts and long-standing pride for Korean traditions have made it possible to continue experiencing life in the local and historical way.
When you travel to a new country, you no doubt want an enriching experience. You’re a conscious traveler, after all! Check out these 5 Korean handicrafts that give a lesson in local history.
A short summary about Korean art: Traditional Korean crafts reflect centuries of artistry and cultural identity, are are often skills passed from one generation to the next. These crafts have roots in Korea’s Confucian, Buddhist, and shamanistic history, and include hanji (handmade paper), lacquerware, stamps, knot tying, and calligraphy.
5 Korean Handicrafts to Try in Seoul
Korea has a long history of conflict and occupation. Multiple gruesome battles and wars have taken place on Korean soil. Occupation almost decimated the Korean language and way of life. Had it not been for the perseverance of Koreans, some of the traditions may have been forgotten.
Though now, Korea is one of the most culturally well-preserved countries on the planet. In the Hanok Village, a cool neighborhood in Seoul, you can easily fill an afternoon with educational activities, like historical walking tours, street food vendors, and exploring the royal palaces.
Behind worn doors and silk screens, artists open their studios. Whether it be a room fragrant with tea and silence beside the sound of slippers padding across the floor, or a boisterous, messy class covered in splattered paint and filled with laughter, there’s something for everyone.
I was lucky enough to get immersed in the world of traditional Korean art. My five favorites were:
- Calligraphy
- Mother-of-pearl lacquer art
- Maedeup knots
- Hanji paper crafts
- Dojang name stamps
1. Calligraphy in Korean Crafts
Considered the cornerstone of Korean crafts, calligraphy was practiced long before the creation of hangul (the Korean alphabet) in 1443. Initially, artists wrote in Chinese characters (hanja) and continued to do so well into the nineteenth century.
When, at one point, using hanja had been considered sophisticated, it turned into an outdated practice marked by a negative history and desire for individual identity.
Today, works of calligraphy can be seen everywhere you look, from practice books bought in a store to permanent displays at the National Museum.
2. Mother-of-Pearl Lacquer Art
A combination of shells and resin is at the forefront of this craft. Called ‘najeonchilgi’ in Korean, ‘najeon’ meaning ‘mother of pearl’ and ‘chilgi’ meaning ‘lacquer-wear,’ it is a craft heavily practiced to this day.
Various other countries in Asia boast of their historical use of mother-of-pearl in both art and items for practical use.
Mother-of-Pearl lacquer art is thought to have arrived in Korea during the Silla period (57-935 CE), though it gained momentum during the following Goryeo period, and ultimately became a representative of that time.
Opalescent shells formed intricate designs of twisting vines and chrysanthemum flowers on personal items used by nobles. Today, lacquer-wear is a practiced art for anyone with a little dexterity and patience to enjoy.
I went to a lovely artist’s studio shared in Yongsan Crafts near Itaewon. The artist was both friendly and patient, clearly dedicated to her work. While she helped me, she discussed the art of lacquer-wear and its history.
To find this experience, I used KakaoTalk, a popular Korean App that’s useful for travelers. However, bookings are easier if you do them on a site like GetYourGuide or Trazy. I suggest checking out the art studio near Daerim Subway stop, where you can practice this traditional Korean craft!
3. Maedeup Knots for Korean Crafts
Maedeup is the art of traditional knot tying and dates back as early as 57 B.C. It employs unique braiding techniques to create beautifully intricate knots, which originally had practical use for hunters to hang tools from a belt.
Knot tying made a comeback in decorative items to use around the house, jewelry, and detailed pieces of clothing, especially norigae, the knot tied to a woman’s traditional jacket. There are over 30 types of basic knotting techniques in this Korean craft!
I had an early morning class with the owner of a maedeup shop in the historical hanok village of Seoul. He’s an artisan who learned the art of maedeup from his mother, who had mastered the craft for over fifty years.
His studio space is intimate and calm, perfect for discussing its history and asking deeper questions.
4. Hanji Decorative Paper
The tradition of papermaking handicrafts in Korea began somewhere between the third and sixth centuries, not long after its inception in China.
Made from the bark of the paper mulberry tree and the slimy mucous produced by the roots of an aibika (hibiscus flower), hanji is a traditional style of paper craft. There are a few studios around Insadong, Seoul’s most cultural neighborhood, where you can try it for yourself.
Because of its durability, hanji is used for a number of different crafts. During the early twelfth century, the use of hanji expanded from letters and printed books to cigarette containers and artificial flowers.
Artists now use hanji as a way to integrate their history into modern practice. Dipping the paper into wax increases its flexibility, durability, and water resistance, making it ideal for decorative pieces and houseware items.
The studio I went to was located in the center of the cultural district of Seoul, a fitting home for it. The artisan was a kind woman with a studio filled with brightly colored paper goods.
Hanji covered every flat surface. I dipped a brush into liquid glue and smoothed paper across the surface of a wooden box, which transported me back to the old days of papier-mache crafts.
5. Dojang Korean Crafts
Korea has held tight to the tradition of using a dojang (stamp) in lieu of writing a signature. Despite the growing popularity of using a signature, many Koreans still have a seal with their name. Every registered business has its own company seal as well.
Making your seal is a unique craft to take part in. Initially, I thought I’d never use my seal, but now I love to stamp it on letters and other items to personalize. The artisan I went to in Insadong had a huge selection of stones ranging in shape, size, and design.
Some of the stamps came as plain stone, whereas others had a decorative foil design. I purchased an onyx-colored stone with a cherry blossom design. Some of the stones come as a set of two for newlyweds!
After I made a selection, I wrote my name for the artisan. He gave me the option to write it in Hangul (Korean) or English. I chose hangul because it was during my final week in Seoul, and it felt like the appropriate punctuation for my time in the country.
From there, it took only 30 minutes. The artisan used a machine cutter to engrave the stone, and from there, I chose a pouch.
Out of all the things I made, I enjoyed the lacquer art most. The artist was friendly, welcoming, and informative about the history of the craft. I had to employ some intense patience with this craft, but finished a great piece that I’ll hand on for years.
What is traditional Korean art known for?
Traditional Korean art is known for its harmony with nature, simplicity, and symbolism. Korean artists from past centuries emphasized balance and spiritual meaning rather than grandeur.
How is Korean art different from Chinese or Japanese art?
While Korea shares influences with China and Japan, Korean art is distinctly its own. Korean art tends to favor softer, naturalistic forms and muted colors. Korean art often bridges elegance and humility, a nod to Korea’s Confucian social systems.
Are Korean crafts still made today?
Yes, many traditional crafts are still practiced by master artisans, some recognized as “Intangible Cultural Assets” by the Korean government. You’ll also find modern reinterpretations of hanji lamps, bojagi-inspired fashion, and contemporary ceramic art.
What are the best museums for Korean art and crafts?
Top museums include the National Museum of Korea (Seoul), which houses extensive collections of ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy, and the National Folk Museum of Korea (Seoul), which focuses on traditional daily life and crafts. In Jeonju and Andong, day-trip cities from Seoul, smaller regional museums also highlight local handicraft traditions.
Where can you buy authentic traditional crafts in Seoul or Busan?
In Seoul, some of the best places to buy authentic crafts are Insadong, a cultural district lined with shops, and Bukchon Hanok Village, where artisan studios sell handmade lacquerware, embroidery, and pottery. In Busan, head to the Gukje Market and BIFF Square area for a mix of traditional goods and modern souvenirs. For higher-end, curated pieces, the Busan Museum of Art gift shop and local craft galleries offer authentic artisan work.
Curious About Culture and Heritage? Try Korean Art
Before the mass production of goods, we used to buy our goods from artisans and craftsmen. These were people who worked hard to build a skill and made useful or beautiful objects. Things like cooking tools, clothing, and jewelry were all typically made by someone who lived locally.
Sadly, our society has almost completely done away with the need for local craftsmen, but that’s not to say that they have ceased to exist. The majority of us may buy our house items from mass producers, but there are still artisans who handmake goods and do so with passion.
If you want to get a little closer to the culture and heritage of a place you visit, try finding a local artist who will teach you a handicraft. Not only will you learn a skill, but you’ll also contribute to the livelihood of the artists who work hard to preserve their heritage through craft.
