▲ The Mother-of-Pearl Craft Experience poster

The Korean Cultural Centre in South Africa (KCCSA) showcased Korea's traditional mother-of-pearl craft to South Africans with a workshop event held last week on 14 June where participants were given an introductory lecture and an opportunity to try the making the craft themselves.

▲ Participants listening to the instructor’s lecture on the Korean traditional mother-of-pearl crafts

The Centre provided the participants with materials to make brooch accessories and rings utilizing the mother-of-pearl and the style of the Korean traditional craft.

▲ Participants making Korean traditional mother-of-pearl crafts

The registration for the event was closed in just two hours due to high demand, reflecting the recent growing popularity towards the Korean culture in the country.

▲ Lisa (left) presenting her work

Lisa (18), a first-time visitor to the Centre who came on her friend's recommendation, said, “It seems to be quite similar to South African traditional beadwork. I used to watch my mom doing the beadwork growing up; it is actually fun to experience it myself." She also added "I didn't know anything about Korean traditional crafts, but I realize they are so beautiful. I want to learn more about Korean traditional arts in the future."

▲ Alet (left) and her daughter Danelle

Alet (53), who participated in the event with her daughter said, “I always watch K-dramas and enjoy listening to K-pop with my daughter. I had to drive four hours all the way from Free State to participate in today's event, but I’m so happy that I can have this lovely mom-and-daughter time with something that we both love.” She expressed great excitement for the event and added, “I was deeply impressed by the beauty of Korean traditional crafts. To be honest, other than K-dramas and K-pop, I have not been very familiar with Korean traditional culture, but now I have already developed a great interest in Korean traditional culture and arts.”

▲ Participants capturing their work on camera

This workshop event is part of the Korean traditional craft workshop series regularly provided by the Centre. The previous workshops included chopstick craft, calligraphy, and traditional knots craft, which have been continued since last year.

▲ Participants presenting their works

For more details about upcoming events at the Centre, visit their website at https://sa.korean-culture.org/.