Last Tuesday, 26 March, the Korean Cultural Centre in South Africa (KCCSA) held another Korean craft workshop making a traditional hanji lamp.

The participants were introduced to the exquisite beauty of the Korean hanji art, and made their own Korean traditional lamp decorating it with a variety of beautiful colored hanji papers.

What is HANJI?

Hanji, a traditional Korean paper renowned for its remarkable durability, delicate texture, and versatile applications, stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic ingenuity of Korea. Made from the inner bark of the mulberry tree, hanji culture most thrived during the Joseon Dynasty and the Koryo Dynasty era. Hanji has evolved from a functional material used for everyday objects to a revered medium for intricate paper crafting. This paper is deeply intertwined with Korean identity, encapsulating the essence of Korean craftsmanship and aesthetics.

KOREAN TRADITIONAL LAMPS

Korean traditional lamps are exquisite lamps made from hanji, a traditional Korean paper handmade from mulberry trees. These lamps are renowned for their beauty and intricate designs, often featuring traditional Korean motifs such as flowers, birds, and patterns inspired by nature.

Craftsmen use a meticulous process to create hanji lamps, including handcrafting the paper, dyeing it with natural pigments, and then shaping it into various forms. The final product is a stunning lamp that emits a soft, warm glow, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Hanji lamps are not only decorative but also functional, providing gentle lighting for homes, restaurants, and other spaces. They are cherished for their cultural significance and are considered a symbol of traditional Korean craftsmanship and artistry.

Learn more about the ongoing and future events of the KCCSA at the links below.
 

Korean Cultural Centre in South Africa (KCCSA) | 주남아공한국문화원

• Website: https://sa.korean-culture.org/en

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kccsa

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kcc.sa/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kccsa

• X: https://twitter.com/KCC_SA