▲ The event poster

The Korean Cultural Centre in South Africa (KCCSA) introduced Korea's traditional seal craft called Jeongak to South Africans through a special workshop event held on 18 July. Participants were provided with an introductory lecture and given the opportunity to try crafting the seals themselves.

▲ Participants listening to the instructor’s lecture

Jeongak is a traditional Korean seal stamp that has been used for authentication and identification. It is a small, handheld object made of materials such as stone, jade, or wood, and is engraved with intricate designs and characters. The Jeongak is used to create a unique imprint or seal impression, which serves as a personal signature or official mark. In Korean culture, the jeongak holds deep historical and cultural significance, representing one's identity, authority, and social status. It is commonly used to validate important documents, artwork, or correspondence, and is considered a symbol of trust and authenticity. The art of creating and using jeongak has been passed down through generations, reflecting the respect for tradition and the importance of personal integrity in Korean society.

▲ Participants making their own Jeongak

During the event, participants had the opportunity to carve their names or words/phrases with special meanings to them on the Jeongak, using materials provided by the Centre.

▲ Lzt Bloem (46) presenting her work

Lzt Bloem, one of the most avid participants of the events hosted by the Centre, said “I have participated in many events hosted by the Centre because I like Korean culture, but I did not know much about traditional crafts. I am very happy to discover another aspect of Korean culture.”

▲ Natashe de Agrela (47) carving her daughter's name on the Jeongak

Natasha de Agrela said “Actually, my daughter is attending the Taekwondo class at the Centre. That's how I came to visit the Centre. I realize how beautiful Korean traditional crafts are. I feel like now I have become the fan of Korean culture," extending her gratitude to the Centre for organizing the event.

▲ Participant's work stamped on a bookmark

This workshop event is part of the Korean traditional craft workshop series regularly provided by the Centre, which has previously featured Hanbok Accessories, chopstick craft, calligraphy, traditional knots craft, and mother-of-pearl craft workshops.

▲ Participants presenting their works

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