The Korean Cultural Centre UK (KCCUK) will host a traditional Jogakbo Workshop on Friday, September 26, as part of its ongoing K-Creative Sessions program. The event aims to introduce UK audiences to the cultural significance and artistic beauty of jogakbo, Korea's traditional patchwork technique that transforms small fabric pieces into harmonious artistic compositions.
Director Seunghye Sun of the KCCUK emphasized the cultural importance of this traditional art form, stating that "Jogakbo is an art form where small fabric pieces come together to create a harmonious whole, embodying the essence of Korean aesthetics—where the one contains the many, and the many unite as one." Sun noted that this ancient tradition is experiencing a renaissance as cultural heritage for contemporary audiences. The director highlighted the workshop's potential as a bridge between cultures, explaining that given the UK's strong interest in patchwork and craft traditions, the event will serve as a creative platform for cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Korean and British artistic practices.
The workshop will be led by instructor Hyekyung Choi, who will guide participants through both the practical and cultural aspects of jogakbo creation. The program goes beyond simple hands-on crafting, incorporating captivating stories about the historical significance of jogakbo and fostering interactive dialogue to deepen participants' understanding of Korean cultural heritage. Attendees will learn about the symbolic meaning of jogakbo in Korean history while creating their own pieces, allowing them to reflect on the cultural significance embedded in this traditional art form. Following the creative activity, completed works will be displayed in a group exhibition, enabling participants to share their creations and collectively appreciate the beauty of traditional Korean culture.
The workshop also provides a unique opportunity for cross-cultural comparison between Korean jogakbo and British patchwork traditions. British patchwork has deep historical roots in medieval practices of thrift and recycling, gaining widespread popularity following the Industrial Revolution. The British tradition is particularly known for the English Paper Piecing technique, characterized by distinctive hexagonal patches. During the Victorian era, patchwork became a symbol of women's communal activities and social gatherings, later evolving into a recognized form of artistic expression throughout the 20th century. Similarly, Korean jogakbo transforms remnant fabrics into harmonious displays of color and form, creating a distinctive aesthetic philosophy. Both traditions share the fundamental concept of uniting small individual pieces to form a greater, more beautiful whole, making this workshop an ideal setting for meaningful cross-cultural dialogue.
Through its K-Creative Sessions initiative, the KCCUK continues its mission to promote Korean traditional culture and history among UK audiences through diverse and engaging cultural events. The center remains committed to building stronger connections with the British public by presenting innovative programs that showcase the richness of Korean cultural heritage and inspire ongoing cultural conversations between the two nations. Those interested in participating or learning more about the workshop can contact the Korean Cultural Centre UK directly for additional information and registration details.
