▲ The poster of the festival ⓒ Ministry of Culture, Sports and TourismThe seventh annual Korea Craft Week commenced on Friday, with festivities spanning four cities and counties across the nation, highlighting local crafts and traditions.

Goseong County in Gangwon Province, Jinju in South Gyeongsang Province, and North Jeolla Province’s Jeonju and Buan County are hosting a variety of events aimed at promoting local craftsmanship until May 26.

In Goseong, visitors are invited to participate in a challenge to create crafts from recycled litter collected at Song Ji-ho Beach and Ayajin Beach, with discounts available at nearby dining establishments and cafes.

Jinju, designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Craft and Folk Arts, offers similar programs featuring exhibitions, galleries, and workshops. Local crafts are prominently displayed at Lotte Mall Jinju, the region’s largest shopping complex, culminating in flea markets on May 19 and 26, the final day of the exhibition.

Jinju’s Namgang Yudeung Exhibition Hall provides an opportunity for attendees to learn the art of crafting “hanji yudeung” or hanji lamps, utilizing traditional Korean mulberry paper.

The historic Hanok Village in Jeonju celebrates both “hanok” (traditional Korean houses) and “hanbok” (traditional Korean clothing), featuring discussions with skilled artisans renowned for their traditional craft techniques.

Buan County, situated west of Jeonju, showcases the revered Goryeo celadon tradition, with exhibitions and marketplaces dedicated to preserving this ancient art form.

In Tongeui-dong, Seoul, the Craft Tea Festival takes place at Boan Inn, while the Seoul Museum of Craft Art highlights nationally acclaimed works, including those of ceramics artist Kim Hye-jeong, winner of last year’s top prize.

Lastly, Jeju Island invites master hanji artisan Jang Seong-woo to demonstrate the intricate process of crafting traditional Korean paper.

The Korea Craft Week celebrations provide a platform to appreciate and uphold Korea’s rich artistic heritage through diverse cultural experiences and educational opportunities.

Sayart / Chloe Kim, 2022chloe.k@gmil.com