Korea's Traditional Paper

Historically, Korean paper was celebrated throughout Asia as some of the best available anywhere. Said to have been invented in China, paper making made its way to Korea before the art was transferred to Japan. The paper created from the Korean mulberry tree is known as hanji, and it was said that it could last 1,000 years! You’ll see why when you experience the strength and beauty of hanji!

One of the best places to learn about Korean traditional paper and to make various objects with it is Hanji & People, a workshop located in the popular Insa-dong neighborhood. With craft classes conducted in Chinese, English and Japanese, participants can choose from more than one dozen different easy-to-make projects that take anywhere between one to three hours to complete. For example, you can make a beautiful hand mirror or a picture frame. The more ambitious art student can even endeavor to create a traditional doll!

Note: To ensure your class is available, it is advisable to call or email ahead of time.

Tel: 02-725-9979;

Email: boomi9804@hanmail.net

If you’d like to experience more Korean traditional craft activities, you’re in luck! There are a number of other organizations, galleries and museums that pro- vide public workshops for a modest fee. For example, at Gagyo (http://www.gagyo365.com) you can make a bojagi, a square piece of cloth that can be hung on the wall for decoration, used to cover a dining room table, or even hung in a window as a colorful window blind. Another option is to make a colorful pincushion. If that doesn’t appeal to you, how about learning the art of the traditional Korean knot at the Dong-Lim Museum in Bukchon? (email: shimyoungmi@korea.com) Also located in Buckhon is the Gahoe Museum, where you can learn about folk painting and amulet stamping!

TRANSIT TIPS

1. From the main Insa-dong Street, walk back up towards Insa-dong Station.

2. At the intersection, turn left towards Gwanghwamun (Gate) and Gyeongbokgung (Palace).