By Honorary Reporter Farrashafa Aisyah and Tepi Tupaidah from Indonesia
Photos = Lilyurim

The Korean Cultural Center in Jakarta, Indonesia, on April 28 hosted its monthly Korean Culture Day under the theme "Hanji 101" to introduce the traditional paper Hanji.

KCC staff member Debora Manja gave a presentation on Hanji, whose previous names included dakji, referring to the paper mulberry tree indigenous to Korea whose bark the paper is made from; ganji, meaning Hanji's use as writing paper; changhoji; its use in windows; and baekji, referring to the 100 steps in the manufacturing process. 

In addition, Hanji's name was based on where it was made like Gyerimji (Silla paper), Goryeoji (Goryeo paper) and Joseonji (Joseon paper).

Hanji is durable and strong. When burned, it leaves no exhaust residue and decomposes easily and quickly, making it eco-friendly. Its silky soft texture also makes it great for calligraphy and painting.

Hanji is used to make miniature figures called dakjongi.

Manja also said Hanji has other names based on color, use, manufacturing method, thickness, size and production area. The KCC library has the book "Hanji" available for borrowing.

The participants later got to make their own Hanji handicrafts or those according to recommendations from the videos shown or instructions from KCC staff. They got 90 minutes to work on their creations and after finishing, they took a group photo with their works. 

The KCC chose three as the most outstanding.

The event's participants pose for a group photo with their handicrafts.

After the event, I interviewed participants on their impressions of this month's event. Rohani Bugis, whose work was one of the top three, said she felt excited because she had to be creative with Hanji and learned about the paper's texture and colors in the process.

Dian Anggraeni, another top three finisher, said "My work was unexpectedly selected by the KCC," adding, "I'm very happy to take part in this event, apart from the surprise recognition of my handicraft. Through this event, I raised my knowledge of Korean culture."

The KCC selected the top three Hanji handicrafts made on Korean Culture Day. 

For anyone interested in Korean culture, the activities at this event add to one's knowledge of Korea. Indonesian fans should regularly visit the KCC's social media accounts and website to get the latest information on this and other events.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things.