Vol. 3 No. 2 Vol.

Summer 2010

Summer 2010 Vol. 3 No. 2

ISSN 2005-0151 Quarterly Magazine of the Cultural Heritage Administration

Summer 2010 Vol. 3 No. 2

Cover

Red symbolizes summer. The symbolism originates from the traditional “five direc- tional colors” based on the ancient Chinese thought of wuxing, or ohaeng in Korean. The cover design features “Westling” by genre painter Kim Hong-do (1745-after 1816), who captured the essence and spirit of Dano festivities. For more stories about Dano, see p.39.

KOREAN HERITAGE is also available on the website. ( http://english.cha.go.kr ) 3 | 4

ADMINISTRATOR’S NOTE KOREAN FOLK CUSTOMS

Korean Heritage Greets Its Third Summer Refreshing Midsummer Respite

After a long, severe winter and an unusually chilly and whimsical spring, summer is back It is the time for craving fresh winds blowing from the sea with its fresh green foliage brightening the landscape. Humbly watching the wondrous and the cool streams gurgling along shaded valleys. People works of nature blessing this land with the four distinct seasons, we are reminded of a cer- nowadays flock to beaches and mountains to escape the tain power that links us to our forebears, who also lived amid the splendid beauty of each scorching heat blanketing the cities. But how did ancient season here through tens of thousands of years. This also makes us recall our innate ob- Koreans beat the heat in the summer? ligation to securely preserve and cultivate our long history and brilliant cultural heritage. Yudu has been the midsummer holiday for Koreans over the Korean Heritage meets its third summer. Since its inauguration two years ago, this quar- centuries. On the fifteenth of the sixth lunar month, Koreans for ages washed their bodies in terly publication has played a significant role in introducing vivid stories and pictures a clean stream flowing to the east and offered food made from the year’s first harvests to an- of Korea’s cultural heritage among global readers to increase their understanding of the cestral spirits and gods of land and sea, wishing a summer of good health and bountiful crops. traditions and culture that form the roots of Korea and Korean people. This edition, a con- Hence it was among the major holidays falling on the fifteenth, or the full moon days, along tinuum of our effort, highlights Jongmyo, the royal ancestral shrine of Korea’s last mon- with daeboreum (the first full moon of the year), baekjung (the Buddhist day for all souls in archy, and Exemplar of Korean Medicine (Dongeui Bogam), a 17th century compendium the seventh month) and chuseok (the harvest festival in the eighth month). of medical science, among other outstanding cultural legacies of Korea. The moon was a symbol of abundance and fertility in ancient agrarian societies, and among As the nation marks the centenary of Korea-Japan annexation and the 60th anniversary the colors representing the five cardinal directions, east stood for blue and blissful energy that of the outbreak of the Korean War this year, this is the time for us to reflect on our past chased away evil spirits and invoked good fortune. Therefore, by scrubbing head to toe in a and redefine its meaning for a foundation of new values for the future. In this context, the stream flowing toward the east (dongnyusu dumogyok) on the full moon day in the middle Cultural Heritage Administration is putting the final touches on a two-decade-long res- of the year, ancient Koreans believed they could fend off bad fortune and refresh their body toration project of Gyeongbok Palace, which is slated for completion later this year. The and mind. reconstruction of Sungnyemun, the South Gate of pre-modern Seoul, will also begin this year, following research and planning since it was destroyed in a fire in February 2008. Yudu is also called sudu, meaning “mul maji” or “taking the waters.” It suggests the time- worn customs have their origins in the folk hydra therapy, dating back to the Silla period (57 Maintaining, promoting and utilizing our history and heritage is the core task of the Cul- B.C.–A.D. 935) or even earlier. tural Heritage Administration in fulfilling its mission as a conduit to the past, present and future. The Administration will spare no effort to explore and publicize more diverse On the morning of this day, families observed simple rites by offering fresh seasonal foods aspects of Korea’s cultural and natural assets throughout the country and to achieve their to their ancestors’ spirits. The royal family conducted formal rites at Jongmyo, the royal sustainable preservation and management. ancestral shrine, and noble families at private family shrines. In farming and fishing villages, the villagers conducted rites to seek benevolence from agrarian gods and the dragon king of the sea.

It was also a day for good food and joyful games. After the ritual offerings everyone flocked Yi, Kun Moo to the mountains or streams to enjoy a sweet respite from their busy farming season. The final Administrator rounds of rice transplanting and more weeding awaited them. Cultural Heritage Administration Republic of Korea 5 | 6

Summer 2010 Vol. 3 No. 2

CONTENTS

07 World Heritage in Korea 29 Photo Gallery

Solemn Depth That Transcends Life and Death So Geumgang : “Little Diamond” in Mount Odae Royal Ancestral Shrine of Joseon Dynasty

13 Guardians of Cultural Heritage 37 Foreigner’s View

Dr. Park’s Discovery Stuns the World Dano Festivities to Secure Good Fortune Librarian Finds Lost Print Treasure

19 Architectural Heritage 41 Documentary Heritage

Symbolism of Numbers in Korean Architecture Cyclopedia of Eastern Medical Science Exemplar of Korean Medicine (Dongeui Bogam)

25 Science for Cultural Heritage 45 Intangible Heritage

Summer Fabric Woven from Grass The Flavors and Styles of Korea The Prized Fine Ramie of Hansan Royal Cuisine of Joseon Dynasty 7 | 8 World Heritage in Korea

places that would manifest the uncontested legitimacy and authority of the dynasty en- dowed from the spirits of royal ancestors and Solemn Depth That Transcends Life and Death gods of nature. “Preserving the royal shrine and state altars,” therefore, meant safeguard- Royal Ancestral Shrine of Joseon Dynasty ing the dynasty itself.

The royal ancestral shrine constituted the Text from World Heritage in Korea moral backbone of a Confucian dynasty, the place where Korean royal families per- formed rites to venerate their ancestors, starting with the Silla period (57 B.C.−A.D. “Your Majesty, please preserve the Jongmyo from the influence of old forces. With the site 935). China had imperial ancestral temples, 2 and Sajik!” This plea from court retainers of the new capital chosen, he decided where called taimiao, since ancient times, while in is heard in Korean period dramas when the to build the main palace and ordered the con- own style and procedures in the actual con- 2. Jongmyo is nestled in Japan, which also belonged to the Confucian lush woods in the heart of king is remiss in looking after state affairs or struction of two other key facilities ― the struction of the royal memorial shrine and cultural sphere, the spirit tablets of emperors Seoul. when the country is in crisis. What are Jong- royal ancestral shrine and the altars for the ceremonial performances. This is why Jong- were enshrined at Shinto shrines. In China, myo and Sajik? Why are they so important? gods of land and crops ― to the left and right myo is recognized as an outstanding cultural the imperial ancestral temple of the Qing side of the palace, respectively. legacy of Korea. Two years after proclaiming the founding of Dynasty remains in Beijing, but its buildings the Joseon Dynasty in 1392, Taejo moved the Jongmyo, the royal ancestral shrine, was to have been largely remodeled under com- Dazzling Beauty of Simplicity, Repetition seat of his throne to Hanyang, the present- house the spirit tablets of kings and queens, munist rule and the traditional veneration and Restraint day Seoul, from Gaeseong, in spite of his and the Sajik would comprise the altars for ceremonies have been discontinued. In the Along with Changdeok and Changgyeong 1. The Main Hall of Jong- earlier pledge to retain the state name and gods of land and crops. As state sites as im- Confucian cultural sphere, Korea is the only palaces, Jongmyo originally formed part of myo houses 49 spirit tab- systems of Goryeo. He needed a new seat portant as the main palace, where the king country where a royal ancestral shrine is per- lets of kings and queens of an exclusive zone in the heart of old Seoul. of power to rule his fledgling kingdom away would reside and rule, they were sacred fectly preserved and veneration rites contin- the Joseon Dynasty. But it now lies apart from the two palaces ue to be conducted in the authentic manner. across a road, which the Japanese made to This is a major reason why the UNESCO in- “cut off the vein of Joseon” during the colo- scribed Jongmyo on its World Heritage List. nial period. The spirit tablets of kings and queens of the For the Joseon Dynasty, Jongmyo had differ- 3. The main gate and the Joseon Dynasty are housed in two halls on spirit path to the Hall of ent symbolic implications than its palaces. It Eternal Peace. the compounds of Jongmyo: the Main Hall (Jeongjeon) keeps 49 royal spirit tablets and the Hall of Eternal Peace (Yeongnyeongjeon) keeps 34 tablets. Noted for its unique ar- chitectural style and solemn ambience, the Main Hall is the largest among contempo- rary wooden structures in the world, with the front façade running 101 meters along 25 bays. The cultural and religious origins of Jongmyo date to the Zhou Dynasty (circa 1046−221 B.C.) of China, or even earlier. Jo- seon based its state ceremonial systems on those of Zhou as provided in Rites of Zhou 1 (Zhouli, or Jurye in Korean), but devised its 3 World Heritage in Korea 9 | 10

The halls and pavilions in Jongmyo, which appeal. The long series of identical columns are for keeping royal spirit tablets or prepar- and the horizontal roof ridge stretching in ing and performing veneration rituals, are parallel with the ground symbolize the eter- simple and functional. They are typically nity of the royal lineage. devoid of gorgeous decoration to emphasize The Main Hall compound, surrounded with piety and solemnity. The impressive façade stone walls, has three gates. A brick-covered of the Main Hall, with its imposing roof and walkway runs through the horizontal stone a series of frontal columns, comes into view platform from the main gate on the south to when one steps inside the south gate of its the Main Hall. The narrow path is reserved compound. The hall stands on a two-tiered for the royal spirits so no living soul is al- 6 stone platform that nearly covers the entire lowed to tread on or cross it. The two other square courtyard. The broad stone platform, gates are for mortals: the east gate was for Japanese invasions in 1592−1598. The hall 6. The chief ritual offciant some 110 meters wide and 70 meters long, is dressed up in his official the king and the west gate for musicians and was rebuilt in 1608, the 41st year of Seonjo, robe and crown performs covered with roughly dressed granite blocks. dancers. Even the king was no more than and again expanded several times. In 1836, the rite for offering the first cup of wine. The elevated ritual arena is bright and open. a humble mortal in this palace of deceased the second year of Heonjong, the Main Hall Here the ritual officiants bow deeply and royal ancestors. attained its present scale with 19 spirit cham- repeatedly and move in orderly processions bers, two side chambers each with three The construction of Jongmyo began in 1394, and musicians and dancers perform during bays, and the corridors extended to the south 4. Ritual officiants stand by the third year of Taejo, when the capital was 4 the royal ancestral rites. from both ends. before the rites. moved to Hanyang, and was completed the was the palace of past kings and queens, the The Main Hall, facing the expansive stone next year. Originally, the Main Hall had sev- The Hall of Eternal Peace is a smaller annex sacred shrine of the royal family. Therefore, platform, appears austere and somber as if en spirit chambers, flanked by a side cham- built to accommodate the growing number it is shrouded in a different ambience from symbolizing the infinity connecting heav- ber on either end. Frequent expansion was of royal spirit tablets. It was at first a four- the palaces. The solemn dignity and elegant en and earth, and life and death. The thick done to accommodate the spirit chambers chamber structure but has been expanded serenity is due to the indigenous function of round columns surmounted by a simple ga- of successive kings and queens, but the en- to a hall with four spirit chambers, six side the shrine. bled roof form an image with soul-stirring tire shrine was turned into ashes during the chambers on either side, and the corridors

7. The Main Hall of Jong- myo has 19 spirit cham- bers.

5. A procession of ritual 5 officiants. 7 World Heritage in Korea 11 | 12

extending out to the south from both ends. notonous ritual spaces were endowed with Though smaller, it basically has the same vibrant vitality. ground plan as the Main Hall and also has The two royal memorial halls are both long an elevated stone platform that covers al- rectangular structures: they have a huge most the entire front courtyard. One distinc- single space inside with cubicle-like spirit tive feature is that the annex has four larger chambers lined along the northern wall. chambers covered with a taller roof at the With a two-panel door for each chamber to center, while the Main Hall has an uninter- the front, all three other sides are surrounded rupted roofline and all of its chambers are with blind brick walls with no doors or win- of the same size. As a result, the annex has dows. The halls are kept dark for peaceful a somewhat comfortable feeling though not 9. Hyangdaecheong is the repose of the souls of the dead, but when office for managing and as majestic as the Main Hall, which is sub- storing incense and other rites are performed, the doors are opened merged in a stern atmosphere. The stone ritual supplies and for the and bamboo screens are hung over them. ritual officiants to stand by terraces in the backyard and the lush forest before the royal ancestral 9 surrounding the compound add to the cozy An open front corridor runs the entire length rites begin. atmosphere. of the façade of both halls, providing an emonial uniforms create a spectacle of clas- Supplies (Hyangdaecheong), and the Memo- ideal space for rituals in all weather, and sical elegance and formality during the royal rial Hall of King Gongmin (of the Goryeo Neither the Main Hall nor the Hall of Eternal its shaded space giving depth to the halls ancestral ceremonies at Jongmyo, making Dynasty; r. 1351−1374). Peace faces due south but both are slightly and accentuating their solemn atmosphere one forget daily routines in a modern society. tilted to the southwest. Not only these royal Jongmyo is a supreme architectural monu- as sacred abodes of royal spirits. The Main memorial halls but all the other buildings for Space for Communion between the Living ment built by top-class architects and en- Hall has 20 entasised columns standing in a ritual preparations were situated to conform and the Dead gineers of the Joseon period. But it is far row, creating a magnificent view. The Hall with the hilly topography so the natural con- from ornate or extravagant. With minimal of Eternal Peace is in an identical style but A sequestered territory in the heart of a tours of the land would not be destroyed. In space necessary for ancestor veneration and smaller in scale. bustling metropolis, Jongmyo comprises contrast to the austere and functional struc- characterized by highly refined simplicity more buildings than the two royal memo- tures of individual buildings, the overall The identical ritual tables set with carefully minimizing color and ornament, the shrine rial halls, that is, the Hall of Meritorious 10. Eosuksil is a royal ground plan of the shrine was designed to prepared food in glistening ritual vessels and is a thought-provoking legacy that prompts pavilion where the kings Subjects (Gongsindang), the Hall of Seven prepared themselves for harmonize succinctly and beautifully with its the same ritual procedures devoutly repeated reflection about the passage of time and eter- Deities (Chilsadang), the Office of Ritual the ancestral veneration natural environment. So the otherwise mo- by proud royal descendants dressed in cer- nity as well as generational repetition and ceremonies. Affairs (Jeonsacheong), the Musicians’ Pa- transmission. The solemn depth transcend- 11. The Main Hall vilion (Akgongcheong), the Royal Pavilion 8. The music and dance for ing time and space overwhelms the visitor. as viewed from the south the royal ancestral rites at (Eosuksil), the Office of Incense and Ritual gate to its compound. Jongmyo as well as the shrine is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

8 10 11 Guardians of Cultural Heritage 13 | 14

1. Cover of Master Bae- gun’s Excerpts from the Buddha and Patriarchs’ Teachings on Direct Point- Dr. Park's Discovery Stuns the World ing to the Essence of Mind, popularly known as Jikji Simche Yojeol. This is a photocopy of the second Librarian Finds Lost Print Treasure volume of the two-volume movable metal type edi- tion printed in 1377.

Text from Sufferings of Cultural Properties published by Nurwa 2. An inside page of Jikji Simche Yojeol printed with movable metal type (a pho- tocopy edition).

2

That wish, made in early August 1955 by Dr. staff she would be able to read books as Yi Byeong-do, a professor at Seoul National much as she needed to write her dissertation. University's Department of History, was di- No doubt she recalled what her professor had rected at one of his students, Park Byeong- said back in Seoul, too. Maybe, she thought, seon, who graduated the SNU College of she might try to find, or even bring home, Education as a history major. She was about the ancient Korean books plundered during to leave for Paris, where she planned to study the French attack a century ago, which were educational administration so she could man- said to have been handed over to France’s na- age a kindergarten and first and secondary tional library. schools after returning from her studies. At the time, to say she was a rare Korean female She Finds Jikji student going to Paris to study would have Later that year while working as a part-time been an understatement: she was the first librarian at the library, Park discovered the ever. On August 11, 1955, five days after she second volume of a book titled Baegun Hwa- left Seoul, Park landed at Orly Airport on the sang Chorok Buljo Jikji Simche Yojeol (Mas- 1 outskirts of Paris, not imagining she would ter Baegun’s Excerpts from the Buddha and stay in France until her hair turns gray. Patriarchs’ Teachings on Direct Pointing to In 1967, while undertaking a doctorate pro- the Essence of Mind). Popularly known as First Korean Female Student to Study in Paris gram, Park had a life-changing moment Jikji Simche Yojeol, or Jikji, the two-volume ― a part-time job offer from the National book written in Chinese was compiled by "We still don't know what cultural properties we lost to the French Library of France (Bibliotheque Nationale Baegun (a.k.a. Gyeonghan, 1289−1374), troops and where the treasures are now. As you have studied history, de France), where she frequently borrowed a high priest toward the end of the Goryeo I hope you will try to find them." books. She accepted a temporary post to Dynasty, with essential parts from sermons, work 15 hours a week without worrying a dialogues and letters of the Historic Bud- bit. She thought that by being on the library dha and various renowned monks. The title Guardians of Cultural Heritage 15 | 16

materials. She once almost blew up her oven as she raised the temperature too high to bake clay fonts. All of those fonts looked similar when seen with bare eyes, but their enlarged photo images revealed differences.

After long research she managed to come by some ancient metal type fonts and tried

printing with them. The result was remark- 4. Cover of Protocol of the ably similar to pages of Jikji. The most cru- Office of Promotion of the cial evidence she found was that the printed Grave of Royal Consort (Sangsi bongwon dogam letters had similar tiny corns along the edges. uigwe) from the Oe Gyu- She asked printers about the flaws, which janggak, or the “outer royal library” of the Joseon they said would often occur on cast metal Dynasty in Gwanghwa Is- objects. land, which is now at the 4 National Library of France.

Park secured irreversible evidence through signed a treaty to set up diplomatic relations different verification processes. In the 1972 with France in 1886. Due to the invasion of International Book Year exhibition, held a French flotilla of Ganghwa Island in 1866, in Paris, Jikji was finally recognized as the France had to wait to open doors to Korea world’s oldest book printed with movable later than most other Western powers. metal type. In 2001, it was inscribed on the 3 UNESCO Memory of the World Register. During his first three-year stint in Korea, de Plancy began collecting ancient Korean ce- 3. The ruins of Heungdeoksa, derived from the phrase, “jikji insim gyeon- in Korea 73 years before Gutenberg invented Park earned two degrees through her work to a Buddhist temple in Cheon- ramics and books and shipped his collection seong seongbul” (Ch. zhizhi renxin jianx- his movable type printing press.” Talking to gju, North Chungcheong prove Jikji is the world’s oldest metal print to France. He served in Japan for the next Province, where the first ing chengfo), explaining the essence of Zen Korean scholars, she only despaired as they book. In 1971 she obtained her first doctor- edition of Jikji Simche Yojeol five years, returned to Korea in 1896 and Buddhism that “one can attain Buddhahood simply sniffed, paying little attention to her was printed with movable ate in history for her dissertation, “Korean stayed for 10 years. He avidly collected an- metal type. by pointing directly to the human mind and assertion. Folklore Studies as Seen through History”; cient Korean documents and books during thereby seeing one’s own nature.” She Needed Proof the next year she received her second degree this period, when he obtained the second An inscription at the end of the book for research in the history of folklore. volume of Jikji. The volume consists of 39 For the next three years Park searched alone read, “Printed with movable metal type at for evidence to support her discovery. She Controversy about Displaced Treasure chapters, but it now has 38 chapters with the Heungdeok Temple in Cheongju and widely opening chapter lost. Upon completing his looked for documents about ancient Korean It is believed that some 50 to 100 copies each distributed in the seventh month of the sev- service in Korea, de Plancy went back home, printing technology but had to resort to Japa- of the first and second volumes ofJikji were enth year of King U of Goryeo.” The year bringing his antique collection. Jikji was nese and Chinese sources as she couldn’t printed and distributed to temples and lead- was 1377. If the inscription was true it meant sold to French antique collector Henri Vever find any relevant material. ing figures in the Buddhist world. A copy of that the book preceded by some 70 years the (1854−1943) for 180 francs in an auction in the second volume landed in the hands of movable type of Johannes Gutenberg of Ger- She could readily distinguish movable type 1911. In accordance with Vever’s will, it was Victor Collin de Plancy (1853−1922), who many, invented around 1450, which had long prints from those of woodblocks. Fonts of donated to the National Library of France in served as minister at the French Legation been recognized as the world’s first movable movable type were often pushed up and 1950, where it is classified as a valuable edi- in Seoul from the late 19th to the early 20th metal type. It was indeed a stunning discov- down while printing so the spaces between tion and kept in an exclusive safe. ery but it didn’t seem the world would believe individual letters tended to be uneven. But century. Known through the novel Lee Jin, a temporary librarian from a small country it was not easy to say whether the type was depicting his love with a Korean court danc- The official recognition of Jikji as the world’s in Asia if she came forward to say, “This made of metal. So she experimented with er, de Plancy was the first French minister first metal print book did not smoothly lead book was printed with movable metal type fonts carved from potatoes, wood and other to arrive in Seoul after the Joseon Dynasty to its inscription on the UNESCO Memory Guardians of Cultural Heritage 17 | 18

of the World Register. An arduous process in 1866. The French sailors were stationed said there were mountain-like piles of large As the first Korean female student to have awaited. The Cultural Heritage Administra- on the island off the west coast for a month books in an archive for damaged books at studied at a French university, Park could tion applied in 1998 for its inscription on and set fire to local government buildings Versailles. have pursued comfort and reputation in other before withdrawing. They headed for China, ways. She instead has trodden a thorny path the global roster of outstanding documents After her request for an opportunity to look loaded with large amounts of books, other to trace the books lost in the turmoil of his- of universal value to human history. But its at the books was rejected a few times, Park cultural treasures and weapons. All of the tory. She still wakes up at 6 o’clock every nomination was excluded from the agenda finally was led into the storage, where she books at the island branch of the Joseon roy- morning and spends the whole day on her for the 1999 conference of the internation- encountered books with “truly intriguing ap- al archives were either burnt or carried away. endless research. al advisory committee for the Memory of pearances” she had never seen before. While the World Register Program in Vienna: the Park searched every possible place for over rummaging through the piles, she came reason was that the book was preserved in 10 years before she located documents from across a volume titled, Bingung Jangnye Do- France. UNESCO told both countries to the Korean royal library. The Catholic mis- gam Uigwe (Protocols of the Office of Fu- jointly apply for inscription, but the National sionary Claude-Charles Dallet (1829−1878) neral for Royal Consort). Leafing through it Library of France rejected the idea. had written in The History of the Church of she found lists of the goods used for building a royal grave and manpower mobilized for Fortunately, Cheongju city succeeded in Korea about Korean cultural relics carried the project as well as daily job sheets. The hosting the fifth conference of the committee away when the flotilla of Admiral Pierre- texts were accompanied by fine illustrations in 2001, where the Korean nomination was Gustave Roze retreated from Ganghwa, but their whereabouts remained a mystery. vividly depicting events for the royal funeral. put on its agenda and approved. Thus she came to understand that the Joseon Considering sailors had brought back the Search for Lost Books Continues Dynasty (1392−1910) kept detailed records relics, she initially inquired mostly at places of major state events in both texts and paint- Park’s hunt for lost ancient Korean books related to the French Navy. But, in fact, the ed images. did not end there. Through her tenacious books she sought were unbelievably close search she discovered 297 volumes of 191 by. One day, while having a meal with an In 1978, Park informed Korean correspon-

titles that had been looted from the Joseon acquaintance who worked at the Versailles dents in Paris of her discovery of books loot- 6

royal archives in Ganghwa Island, named annex of the National Library of France, ed from the Joseon royal archives in Gang- 6. This illustration depicting a royal procession is from Protocol of the Office “Oe Gyujanggak,” or the “outer royal li- she asked whether the library worker had hwa Island during the “foreign disturbance” of Royal Funeral and Grave Construction (Yejang dogam uigwe). It was kept at the royal library of the Joseon Dynasty on Gwanghwa Island and is now at the brary,” by French marines during their attack seen books in Chinese. Her acquaintance in 1866. And she was forced to tender her National Library of France. resignation from the library the next year for 5. A drawing by French na- leaking its classified information to outsid- val officer and painter Jean Henri Zuber (1844-1909), ers. illustrating his account of the French attacks of Gang- After resigning from the National Library hwa Island in 1866. of France, Park had job offers from world- renowned universities and research insti- tutes but she took a temporary research post at the College de France, a royal institution for higher learning and research. There she could continue listing and annotating all of the 297 volumes, which was completed in 1990. When she had read every volume three

times she felt she could grasp the text. In 7 the process she studied idu, an ancient tran- 7. Text of Construction Record of the Memorial Shrine for Crown Prince Mun- scription system of Korean by using Chinese hui (Munhuimyo yeonggeoncheong deungnok) from the Joseon royal library on characters, which was necessary for deci- Ganghwa Island, which is at the National Library of France. 5 phering ancient texts. Architectural Heritage 19 | 20

Symbolism of Numbers in Korean Architecture

Text and photo by Kim Do-gyeong | Professor at the Department of Architecture, Kangwon National University

Numbers have had symbolic meanings that those of fourth head rank (dupum) should not differ from region to region and from na- live in a house with rooms larger than 15 by tion to nation. Koreans have formed their 15 feet (ja); those of fifth head rank should own numerical concepts and symbols since not exceed 18 by 18 feet; those of sixth head ancient times. They have applied, though rank 21 by 21 feet; and those of the “true with periodic changes, numbers and graph- bone” (jingol) aristocracy should not exceed ics and their combinations to architecture on 24 by 24 feet. In view of the identical differ- the basis of advanced theories of geometry ences between ranks, these room sizes were and mathematics, which were deeply related presumably calculated with the number three with astronomy, divination and philosophi- as the basic unit. cal thoughts. Amid such complicated inter- Given that 15 by 15 feet allowed for those actions, numbers and graphics attained even of fourth head rank was the basis, the num- deeper and richer symbolism and contrib- ber 15 probably had a significant symbolic uted to the development of various architec- meaning. Three multiplied by five is 15, and tural styles. three represents the universe in East Asian Historical records and monuments provide thought. The theory of yin and yang pro- many examples of symbolic numbers ap- vides that one is the first and the purest posi- plied to architecture. Silla (57 B.C.−A.D. tive number; two is the first and the purest 935) regulated the maximum permissible negative number; and three, the sum of one size of homes depending on their occu- plus two, is the first variation to the purest pants’ “bone rank.” According to “Articles positive number, and signifies the birth of on Houses” from “Miscellaneous Records” the universe. The universe consists of three in History of the Three Kingdoms (Samguk realms (sancai, or samjae in Korean) ― Sagi), the government of Silla ruled that heaven, earth and man. In the thought of the five phases (wuxing, or ohaeng), the number five denotes the perfect state of the universe. Five also can be interpreted as the symbolic 1. Seokgatap (Sakyamuni height, or the average eye level, of humans. Pagoda) in Bulguksa Tem- ple has three stories. The concepts of positive and negative num- 2. Eight lotus roundels, bers were also applied to architectural plan- symbolizing the Buddha’s lotus throne, surround the ning. The traditional theory of geomancy Sakyamuni Pagoda in Bul- 11 1 2 (fengshui, or pungsu) greatly influenced the guksa Temple. 21 | 22 Architectural Heritage

site selection of dwellings for both the liv- boring countries, represented by each story in “Records of Goguryeo” says that King ing and the dead, and positive numbers were from the bottom, that is, Japan, Junghwa Dongmyeong (r. 37−19 B.C.), the founding generally used in building the “abodes of (Zhonghua), Owol (Wuyue), Takla (Tuoluo), ruler, hid a broken sword as a memento for light” for the living and negative numbers to Eungyu (Yingyou), Malgal (Mohe), Danguk his son between a column and a heptagonal the “abodes of darkness” for the dead. For (Danguo), Yeojeok (Nudi) and Yemaek. foundation stone in his old house. example, the width of a house was usually Geometric Symbolism in Architecture There is no way to prove whether the foun- determined in positive numbers, such as one dation stone actually had a heptagonal shape Progress in geometric studies exerted enor- bay, three bays, five bays, or seven bays. but there was undoubtedly a notion of hep- mous influence on architecture. In ancient This also made it easier to designate the cen- tagon among people at the time. Excava- East Asia, graphic skill was called the “skill ter of the structure. In the same context, the tions on building sites in mountain fortresses of compass and square” (guijushu, or gyugu- concave tiles on the roof ridges or hips were constructed during early years of the Three sul), a coinage of the two words gui, mean- laid in three, five, seven, or nine levels. Kingdoms period (57 B.C.−A.D. 668), in- ing a circular ruler, and ju, meaning a square 6 Pagodas in Buddhist temples may be seen cluding those on Mount Iseong and Gong, ruler. These basic tools for graphic drawing 6. The main chamber of as “abodes of darkness” in the sense that the have yielded nonagonal and dodecagonal as appear in ancient tomb murals portraying Seokguram Grotto was de- remains of the Buddha and revered monks well as octagonal architectural elements. signed by applying propor- Fuxi, the legendary creator god of China tions based on the rule of are ensconced inside them. But they were and one of its three earliest sovereigns, and The main chamber in Seokbulsa, popularly right triangles. regarded as “abodes of light” more often be- Nuwa who is credited with creating human- known as Seokguram Grotto, is a domed ro- 7. The floor plan of the cause they stand above the ground and some tunda but, precisely speaking, was built on main chamber of Seok- kind and repairing the wall of heaven. Fuxi, guram Grotto is based on even have interior spaces where people can 7 who is said to have taught his subjects as- a nineteen-sided floor plan. Fifteen granite 3:4:5, a proportion repre- enter. Therefore, most pagodas were built in plates border the chamber and the entrance- senting the rule of right tronomy, geography and physics, is depicted the round heaven and square earth, the octa- triangles. odd-numbered stories. The nine-story wood- way is left open with the side columns oc- holding a square ruler, while Nuwa, known gon symbolizes man ― hence the unity of 3. Geometric construction en pagoda at Hwangnyongsa in Gyeongju, cupying a space equivalent to four plates of the regular octagon and as his wife and sister, is holding a circular the three realms of the universe. The Lotus hexagon. the old capital of Silla, had a profound together. The mountaintop chapel, built dur- ruler. These images indicate the mythical fig- Pond, or Buyongji, also in the rear garden symbolism for national defense. Accord- ing the 8th-century Unified Silla period, is 4. Geometric construction ures were associated with geometric studies of Changdeok Palace, epitomizes this style of the regular heptagon. ing to Memorabilia of the Three Kingdoms an impressive pantheon of Buddhist deities as well as astronomy. of garden design. Though their implications 5. “Fuxi and Nuwa,” a (Samguk Yusa), the pagoda was so built as to whose carved images grace the manmade painting dated to the 7th- In view of the tools used, graphic drawing 8th century, found in a manifest the resolution of the rulers of Silla cave achieving a beautiful harmony of geo- 8. Cheongeuijeong (Pavil- tomb in Astana, Turpan. to subdue disturbances from nine neigh- skill in ancient times obviously differed metric designs. ion of Clear Ripples) in the rear garden of Changdeok from today’s methods, which are based on Palace. the measurement of angles. Regular poly- Another notable example is a thatched gons were drawn in terms of their relations open pavilion, named Cheonguijeong, in with a circle by using circular and square Changdeok Palace in Seoul. Standing along rulers. By this method various polygons can the Jade Stream in the rear garden of the Joseon Dynasty palace, this “Pavilion of be drawn without a protractor. Thus a wide Clear Ripples” has a square floor plan and variety of polygons were employed in ar- 3 an octagonal roof frame assembled with 64 chitectural planning in Korea since ancient rectangular wooden rafters covered with a times, such as heptagons, nonagons, dodeca- round grass roof. In traditional graphics the gons and even nineteen-sided polygons, not three geometric figures circle, square and to mention the more popular hexagons and ― octagon ― are closely associated with one octagons. another. The prevailing cosmic view in pre- History of the Three Kingdoms (Samguk modern times was that the heaven was round Sagi) has an interesting reference to a heptag- and the earth was square, which was often 4 5 onal foundation stone. Its entry for King Yuri mirrored in landscape architecture. Between 8 23 | 24 Architectural Heritage

may differ, the Sakyamuni Pagoda (Seokgat- Wei Dynasty and then further complement- is eight. One side of the octagonal-shaped ground plans of the anonymous temple sites ap) and the Pagoda of Many Treasures (Dab- ed by Li Chunfeng in A.D. 656 during the lotus throne emulating Mount Sumeru is in- in Cheongam-ri, Pyongyang, and Gunsu-ri, otap), the renowned pagoda pair at Bulguk- early Tang period. The ninth chapter of this scribed in a circle with the diameter of eight Buyeo, dated to the Goguryeo (37 B.C.−A.D. sa, also adroitly harmonize the triple motifs book elucidates on the rule of right-angled feet. The basic numbers 24 and 8 and three- 668) and Baekje (18 B.C.−A.D. 660) peri- of circle, square and octagon. The 64 rafters triangles. It did not present such a general- quarters yield the unit fractions 3 and 4. Thus ods, respectively. forming the roof structure of Cheonguijeong ized formula as that the square of the hypot- the main chamber of the cave temple, not Meanwhile, proportions based on equal divi- stand for the 64 hexagrams configuring the enuse of a right-angled triangle is equal to only its floor plan but also the cross section, sions characterize the ground plan of Game- entire philosophical spectrum based on the the sum of the squares of the other two sides. should be regarded as designs with a basic unsa, founded in 682 during the Unified Silla dual concepts of yin and yang. Nevertheless, it fully explains the theory by proportion of 3:4. This is also the proportion period. The ruins of the seaside temple reveal providing solutions to various questions. As applied to the arrangement of buildings at Proportional Systems in Architecture that bisection and quadrisection of the square a specific example, it provides 3:4:5 as a rep- Bulguksa as well as the floor plan of the Hall ground were the principal rules in placing its Proportion is created through the harmony of resentative proportion based on right-angled of Amitabha (Geuknakjeon) at Bongjeongsa. halls and pagodas. The main hall sat on the figures and numbers. In both the East and the triangles, which is one of the most widely Moreover, the Hall of Amitabha at the lat- spot with equal distances to the front middle West, architectural proportions were based applied proportions in traditional Korean ar- ter temple, which is assumed to have been gate of its courtyard and the auditorium to on stricter systems in ancient times, an aspect built around the 13th-century Goryeo pe- chitectural design. the back, and also to the cloisters on either which characterizes classical architecture. In riod, appears to have been designed with ja The main chamber of Seokguram Grotto side. Each of the two three-story stone pa- Korea, too, ancient architecture expressed as the basic module, which is equivalent to may be cited as a prominent example. The godas in the main courtyard stands at one- more solid rules of proportion. Among the 1.092−1.1027 feet by the current angle ruler controversial antechamber set aside, the quarter of the expanse, between the two side rules most often detected in ancient Korean (average 1.0984 feet, or approximately 33.3 main rotunda is assumed to have been de- cloisters and between the cloisters flanking architectural structures is the rule of right tri- cm). signed with a diameter measuring 24 feet in the middle gate and the auditorium. angles, which is comparable to the Pythago- the Tang system. Three-quarters to the rear By this measurement, the three-bay front fa- rean theorem of the West. The rule derived along the diameter running from the front çade of this hall is 35 feet, with the central from early Chinese mathematics compiled to the back of the rotunda is found the lotus bay measuring 13 feet and the two side bays in Nine Chapters of the Mathematical Art throne, on which the main Buddha sits. 11 feet each, and the four-bay sides are 24 (Jiuzhang Suanshu, or Gujang Sansul), an- feet with an extended bay of 4.5 feet. The notated by Liu Hui in A.D. 263 during the Twenty-four divided into three equal parts 10. The three-story stone proportion of the front and side of the hall is pagoda in front of Seok- guram Grotto harmonizes 9. Junghwajeon (Hall of 5:4, and that of the extended bay to the main circular, square and oc- Central Harmony), the side bays is 3:4. The cross-section view of tagonal shapes. throne hall in Deoksu Pal- ace, has five frontal bays. the hall reveals that it was built by repeatedly piling up elements with identical heights, which required highly sophisticated math- ematical thinking. This method, however, was employed less frequently over time and eventually disappeared during the Joseon pe- riod.

Another popular proportion in traditional Korean architecture is 1:1.414. Although the ancient Korean architects and engineers did not use the radical sign, they were well acquainted with the concept and often em- ployed the proportion in their work. But the decimal fractions were simplified to 1.4 or 9 1.41 for practical application, as seen in the 10 25 | 26 Science for Cultural Heritage

Summer Fabric Woven from Grass The Prized Fine Ramie of Hansan

Text by Cultural Heritage Administration Photos by Topic & Graphickorea

Families in traditional agrarian society relied on their own labor for supply of such basic needs as food and clothing. Especially, weaving was an important chore for women to pro- duce garment material for their families as well as extra household income. Therefore, textile weaving developed as a major home industry. Among the traditional hand-woven fabrics in the nation, most highly regarded as luxury fabrics today are the ramie (mosi) from Hansan,

1. An ancient tumuli group South Chungcheong Province; cotton (mumyeong) from Naju, South Jeolla Province; and in Changnyeong County, silk (myeongju) from Seongju, North Gyeongsang Province. But not many people these days South Gyeongsang Prov- are willing to learn the arduous crafts, so the age-old skills are in danger of disappearing. ince

1. Fine ramie, or mosi, hand- woven by Bang Yeon-ok, a “human cultural treasure” in Hansan ramie weaving, designated Important Intan- gible Cultural Property No. 14. The standard roll mea- sures 31 x 2,160 cm.

2. Newly woven ramie fab- ric is bleached in the sun.

1 2 27 | 28 Science for Cultural Heritage

From Grass in the Field to Fine Fabric

Ramie plants are harvested three times a year. The stalks are cut and stripped of leaves and branches, and the outer skin is removed, leaving the white inner fibers, which is called “tae mosi,” the raw material for ramie fabric. The fibers are tied in bundles, soaked in wa- ter for a full day to get rid of impurities, and laid out to dry in the sun. This is repeated several times to get fine quality yarn. Next, the dried fibers are moistened and split, us- ing teeth and lips, into strands of even thick- 5 ness. The finest fibers are classified as high grade, while thicker ones are grouped as me- raised in Seocheon County. Mun learned her 5. Summer wear made of fine ramie. dium to low grades. skill from her mother, Shin Sun-cheol; and 3. Newly woven ramie fab- Bang also started weaving under her mother, ric is dried in the sun repeat- The short strands are joined together into edly to be bleached. 3 Park Su-yeong, and later continued to im- threads. Both ends of each strand are soaked prove her skill under Mun. Seven weavers Fancy Material for Cool Summer Wear that a whole bolt of it has to fit into a rice and twisted by rubbing them with palms are currently training under them. They are bowl. Ramie weaving is a cherished tradi- against the lap. The threads are applied with Weaving the fine mosi involves tough proce- two teaching assistants, Park Seung-wol and tion in the region. The local legend has it a paste made from bean flour mixed with dures, beginning with harvesting the ramie Ko Bun-ja; four apprentice graduates, Kang that more than a thousand years ago, during salt and water, using a brush to smooth out plants. The cut ramie stalks are processed Ok-ran, Jeong Sun-jin, Hwang Seon-hui and the Silla period, an old man found a clean- the edges and to prevent napping, and then into white inner fibers; the fibers are split Lee Hyeon-ju; and a scholarship apprentice, looking grass in the field and removed the dried over a fire of rice chaff. The threads are into strands; the strands are twisted into yarn; Lee Hye-rang. skin off the stalks. The inside was very soft rolled into skeins. The threaded warp beam the yarn is treated with starch and rolled into and tender, so he made it into yarn, and wove is laid on the loom and the boat-shaped shut- skeins; the woof threads are wound around a beautiful fabric. They say that was the be- tle is wound with woof threads. Weaving is a shuttle and the warp beam is laid down on ginning of Hansan ramie. then ready to begin. the loom so weaving can begin; and then the 4. Weaving fine ramie in woven fabric is soaked in water and dried in There are two famous weavers in Hansan the traditional method. the sun repeatedly to be bleached. today: Mun Jeong-ok, born in 1928; and Bang Yeon-ok, born in 1947. Both are des- Ramie has been a popular summer fabric ignated as masters in Hansan ramie weav- in Korea for a long time. The climate in the ing, which is Important Intangible Cultural country is ideal for growing the ramie plants. Property No. 14. They were both born and That is why Korean ramie has been highly prized since ancient times. Some even said its delicate and fine texture was “as pure as jade.”

The famous “Hansan mosi” is produced around the Hansan region in Seocheon County, South Chungcheong Province. It is woven with yarn made from inner fibers of 6. Summer wear made of fine ramie. the ramie plants growing in the region. Its 7. Ramie fabric dyed with 6 7 quality is truly superior. It is so fine and fair 4 various natural dyes. 29 | 30 World Heritage in Korea

So Geumgang : “Little Diamond” in Mount Odae Photos by Goodimage & Graphickorea 31 | 32 Photo Gallery

Woljeongsa Temple

Woljeongsa is one of the head mountain So Geumgang, or the “Little Diamond,” is a small mass of rocky peaks widely known for its monasteries of the Korean Buddhist Jogye prominent scenic beauty. Its name was inspired by comparisons to Mount Geumgang across the Order. The temple was founded by Dharma Master Jajang some 1,400 years ago during border in North Korea. It is on the eastern edge of the Mount Odae National Park. Located toward the Silla Kingdom. It has since contributed the East Sea from the mountain’s highest summit, Birobong (Vairocana Peak), it clearly contrasts greatly to making Mount Odae (Odaesan, or the Mountain of Five Terraces) a Buddhist with the gentle earthy slopes to the west scattered with numerous ancient Buddhist sites. holy land. 33 | 34 Photo Gallery

‘Little Diamond’ in Mount Odae

True to its name, So Geumgang also has the Nine Dragon Waterfalls (Guryong Pokpo), forming the core scenic spot in its splendid valley lined with craggy rocks. Legend has it that nine dragons emerged from the nine ponds in the upper valley to occupy the waterfalls, one for each. Along the mountain ridge beyond the ponds remain the ruins of a fortress, which is said to have been built by the last crown prince of Silla, who changed into a coarse hemp robe and took refuge here, lamenting the fate of the fallen dynasty. 35 | 36 Photo Gallery

The cool cascades pouring down the rugged cliffs, the clear stream gurgling along the pristine valley — the Little Diamond is a haven for lovers of nature throughout the year. The valley turns into an ornate flower garden in the spring, a fresh wooded retreat in the summer, a breathtaking palette of rainbow foliage in the autumn, and an immaculate snow country in the winter. 37 | 38 Foreigner’s View

in farming but were of the utmost necessity for carrying military supplies and for use in battle. On Surit-nal, these carts were mobilized and Dano Festivities to Secure participated in the king’s review of the troops – hence the name of the holiday.

Good Fortune The Talismanic Effects of “Changpo”

This day was influenced by both Chinese Text by David Shaffer | A long-time resident of Korea, Dr. Shaffer is a professor of language and linguis- custom and language. With time Surit-nal tics at Chosun University and author of Seasonal Customs of Korea as well as books on Korean poetry and Korean came to be known as Dano. As was custom- and English language learning. ary in China, this day was a time to gather

medicinal herbs. Of particular note is chang- 2 po (Acorus Asiaticus), a member of the iris tiger dolls made of mugwort, called aeho, 2. “A Scene on Dano Day” resulting in widespread sickness and even family and similar to sweet flag. Among its from “Album of Scenes were presented to senior court officials by death. Misfortune of this sort, coupled with a many uses, it was stuck in the house gate as a from Daily Life” by genre the king up through the early Joseon pe- painter Shin Yun-bok lull in farming activities following the spring talisman to ward off evil spirits. Wine made riod. The tiger being the most ferocious of (1758–?, sobriquet Hyewon). planting, led to the rise of numerous super- of changpo was also drunk to protect against animals, the dolls were used as talismans stitious customs and eventually to the spring misfortune. to ward off evil spirits. Dolls in the form festival. Since early times, young women got dressed of human figures,aeyong , were also made The earliest records of festivities at this time up on Dano in order to drive off evil spirits of mugwort and hung above doors to expel of year are for the ancient state of Mahan and misfortune. Central to getting dressed up evil spirits. These dolls were decorated with during the Samhan period (1st-3rd century was washing one’s hair and face, and even flowers made of silk with long streamers that

1 A.D.). After the planting of the fifth month bathing, in water boiled with changpo leaves fluttered in the breeze. As the custom spread, was finished, a multitude of people gathered and roots. This gave the hair a shine and was the dolls were made of straw with only a to present offerings to the gods, and sing said to prevent it from falling out and keep it decorative sprig of mugwort attached. The 1. Dano, or the Double Falling on the fifth day of the fifth lunar and dance, and eat and drink, into the night. from graying, in addition to preventing head- young leaves of mugwort were also picked Fifth, heralded summer, and dried on Dano to be used as tinder for which meant fans would month, Dano was traditionally one of Ko- This fifth-month festival is considered to be aches. Boys, too, would wash their long hair be needed. rea’s grandest of festivals. The date is con- a religious practice of offering prayers for in this changpo water. lighting fires. sidered to be one of extraordinary good an abundant harvest. Later, during the Three The womenfolk dressed in new red and blue Paper Talismans fortune, since in Yin-Yang philosophy odd Kingdoms period (4th-7th century AD), of- dresses and made new hairpins for the day. Throughout the Joseon period, the Bureau of numbers are considered to be favorable num- ferings were prepared and presented to the Changpo roots were often used to make Astronomical and Meteorological Observa- bers, and when they occur in pairs, they be- guardian deities of the ancestors of the royal these talismanic hairpins. They were carved tions printed paper talismans called Dano come especially auspicious. Dano activities family of Silla at the ancestral temple. into the shape of hairpins with the Chinese bujeok to present to the king. These bujeok span millennia, and even today numerous The festivities of the fifth lunar month were characters for “longevity” and “happiness” were printed with cinnabar, a red mercuric events, especially those related to the arts, originally called Surit-nal, meaning “high inscribed on the sides. The root was often sulfide often used as a pigment, and were are scheduled for the traditional Dano period day” or “day of the gods.” Surit-nal came to pigmented by soaking it in red water or by placed on the gate posts in the royal palace of mid June. be regularly observed on the fifth day of the applying rouge to the ends in the belief that and in the homes of high officials on Dano month by the rural population. It is also said the red color, most feared by evil spirits, Ancient Origins to ward off misfortune. This custom of past- that sure is an old Korean word meaning cart would drive off evil spirits, thus bringing ing up paper talismans spread to the average The origins of Dano can be traced back to and that carts figured in the day’s celebrations. good fortune for the year. household, and they can still be seen at times ancient times. The fifth month has long been In olden times, each village had military equip- above the door of the main room of some Dano Dolls a period of profuse rain, which in olden ment prepared for use in time of war, and this homes. Nowadays, they may be concealed times caused infectious diseases of all kinds, included carts. These carts could also be used Drawing from the ancient Chinese custom, in wallets or pillowcases, but their purpose 39 | 40 Foreigner’s View

between six and ten meters in length were set in the ground with a crossbar on top to form the frame and two long ropes were sus- pended from the crossbar with a foot board at the bottom for the swing. The object was, of course, to swing as high as possible.

Ssireum Wrestling

While swinging was the popular Dano sport among females, ssireum wrestling was equally popular among males. From the Three Kingdoms period, ssireum was used in military training to instill a fight- ing spirit and increase strength. From this it 3 developed into a Dano activity that spread 5. A mask dance play per- of guarding against misfortune remains the throughout the Peninsula from capital to formed in the evening of same. countryside. While the uncomplicated rules 5 Dano. of the modern-day sport of ssireum were first monly given as the grand prize. An ox still even till the break of dawn, concluding with Swinging set down in the 1920s, the traditional form stands atop the trophy awarded at modern- the masks and costumes, which were believed As was the case with all traditional Korean is even simpler. Matches could be held on day professional ssireum tournaments. to attract evil spirits, being put into a fire and celebrations, entertainment was an integral a naturally sandy area or on a level area of burned. With the destruction of the evil spirits, Mask Dance Performances part of the Dano celebration. The amuse- plain ground. Contestants simply took hold the lives of the participants were thought to ment most readily associated with Dano is of their opponent’s waistbands, pulled and The evening entertainment on Dano often be protected from misfortune and the recently swinging. Swinging became and established pushed with their arms, and used their legs to consisted of the mask dance performances. planted crops would produce a bountiful har- pastime in the king’s palace and among the throw the opponent. The first person to touch These plays with dancing masked performers vest. high society of Goryeo, where it was already the ground with any part of his body other rose to popularity in the king’s court of Silla as These are but some of the activities associ- popular among the lower class. Its popularity than his feet lost. Competitors came from far rituals to drive off evil spirits and later became ated with Dano over the centuries. Dano fes- did not diminish under the Confucian ethic and wide to vie for the ox, which was com- the folk performances of Goryeo and Joseon. tivities were also replete with food and drink of the upper class during the Joseon period The performers were often local lower-level particular to the festival. Medicines were 3. Two women on a swing. and remained fashionable among the com- government staff who had song and dance specially prepared to strengthen the body 4. “Wrestling” from “Al- mon people. talents. The mask dances of the Hwanghae and protect it against the heat of summer. bum of Scenes from Daily Province area, in North Korea, became the Life” by genre painter Kim Swinging was popular in both the capital and Bullfights took place between prize bulls in Hong-do (1745–after 1816, most extravagant and the most popular, espe- the countryside, but it was most popular in rural areas throughout the Peninsula. And sobriquet Danwon). cially the Bongsan and the Gangryeong Mask the Pyeongan Province area around Pyong- during the Joseon period, organized stone Dances. The lion dance became so popular yang. Generally speaking, Dano was more fights took place between the young men of and was so well liked that it was chosen to be widely celebrated the farther north one went, neighboring villages, with the winners secur- performed in the royal court during late Jo- while the contrary was true of Chuseok. ing good fortune for their village for the year seon times. On Dano, mask dances and plays – as it was the procurement of good fortune In the northern part of the Peninsula in the were performed outdoors on a large, grassy that was the underlying purpose of the holi- 1800s, Dano festivities equaled those on area. They usually began in the evening with day of Dano. Lunar New Year’s in intensity and included torches lighting the “stage” and were accom- swinging competitions. Swings used for panied by drum, gong, and flute music. The these contests were often huge. Two poles 4 revelry often lasted deep into the night and 41 | 42 Documentary Heritage

Cyclopedia of Eastern Medical Science Exemplar of Korean Medicine Dongeui Bogam

Text by Seo Byeong-pae | Special Advisor, Cultural Heritage Administration

In 1596, the 29th year of his reign, King Seon- True to its name, Exemplar of Korean Medi- jo of the Joseon Dynasty ordered the royal cine proved to be an invaluable source of physician Heo Jun (1546−1615) to compile medical knowledge and treasured manual for a compendium of medical science based on doctors over the centuries. The book became concerned classics in Korea and China. Amid indispensible to all medical students and its the wartime influx of refugees and victims fame spread to China and Japan, where it of contagious diseases and loss of numerous was also widely used. Although its clinical valuable books, Seonjo felt an acute need to use was inevitably reduced in the 20th cen- organize a medical book that could be easily tury with the introduction of Western medi- used by people and to reprint lost books. Heo cine, the book’s value as a classical source of set up an editorial office in the Royal Infirma- medical knowledge and alternative medicine 1. Exemplar of Korean ry and embarked on compiling an encyclope- was never undermined. One of Korea’s most Medicine (Dongeui Bogam), compiled by Heo Jun (1546– dia of medical theories and treatments, with highly valued cultural treasures (Treasure 1615), a royal physician of assistance from other palace physicians. No. 1085), the 17th century omnibus medical the Joseon Dynasty, which is on the UNESCO’s Memory book was placed on the UNESCO Memory of Japan’s reinvasion of Korea in 1597 inter- of the World Register. cepted the compilation process as the editorial staff was scattered in the chaos of war. When the war ended and peace returned in 1598, the king ordered Heo to resume the project, of- fering 500 reference books from the palace archives. In 1610, after 15 years of devoted ef- fort, Heo and his colleagues completed a mas- sive book that stretched across 25 volumes. Under the title Dongeui Bogam (Exemplar of Korean Medicine), the book was published by the Royal Infirmary in 1613. But Seonjo did not see his monumental achievement. He died in 1608. 1 43 | 44 Documentary Heritage

authors’ names and dates of publication of describe causes, symptoms, principles of 4. Chemist’s mortar. 86 Chinese and Korean medical books which cure and treatments. The 26 areas are head, were used as references, anatomical charts of face, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, tongue, teeth, human body and their explanations, as well as throat, the front and back of neck, back, chest, a table of contents. The main texts are divided breasts, abdomen, navel, waist, sides, skin, under five subjects: “Internal Medicine” and flesh, pulse, tendon, bones, hands, feet, hair, “External Medicine” in four volumes each, genitals, and anus. “Various Illnesses” in 11 volumes, “Liquid “Various Illnesses” (Japbyeong) explains di- Medicines” in three volumes, and “Acupunc- verse diagnostic methods, including the mov- ture” in one volume. Similar diseases are clas- 4 ing energy of heaven and earth, man’s vital sified together and the name of each disease 5. Extracted herbal medi- energy as rising and declining in a 60-year cation and a medicinal is followed by an analytic explanation and cycle, checking disease, dialectic analysis, bowl. 2 preventive medicine. Each symptom is pre- pulse feeling, medication, vomiting, perspira- scribed with an effective medicine and acu- 2. The restored National the World Register in 2009, in recognition of tion and diarrhea. Among sicknesses covered Archive at Mt. odae. puncture therapy as well as pertinent clinical its outstanding universal value as a historical here are internal diseases including stroke, experiences of the author where needed. book that has benefited the human race. cold sensitivity, heat sensitivity, humidity sen- Heo revealed the bibliographical sources of sitivity, dry sensitivity, fever, internal injuries, 5 Precious Mirror for Medical Practice his analysis and treatment for each symp- weakness and fatigue, acute gastroenteritis, well as how to take medicines. Raw materials As noted in the author’s introduction, Ex- tom or disease. The book titles are given ei- nausea and vomiting, coughing, concretion of herbal medicines are classified into aquatic emplar of Korean Medicine was intended ther at the start or the end of the relevant text, and knots, edema, abdominal dropsy, diabet- products, terrestrial products, cereals, human to reflect as clearly and precisely as would a some full titles but more often abbreviations. ics, jaundice and malaria; and external dis- wastes, flying animals, crawling animals, fish, “precious mirror” the time-honored tradition As for the authors’ names, full names, cour- eases including abscess, various boils, various worms, fruits, vegetables, grasses, trees, jade, of research and expertise accomplished by tesy names and pen names were alternately wounds, detoxification, and unidentified epi- stone, and gold. Koreans in the medical profession. Printed used. Multiple sources were cited as “various demics. First aid skills, gynecology and pedi- with woodblocks, the first two of its 25 vol- means.” The bibliographical references cited atrics are also dealt with under this subject. “Acupuncture” (Chimgu) is a comprehensive umes are devoted to a precise description of comprise almost all important classics in Chi- study of theories and clinical applications of “Liquid Medicines” (Tangaek) elaborates on contents. The main text begins with the third nese medicine, dated from Sui and Tang to the acupuncture and related medications, based herbal medication under themes such as the volume, which has a foreword written by Yi early Ming dynasties. largely on the Bronze Man Canon of Acu- three grades of medicinal properties, the 12 Jeong-gu in accordance with royal orders in puncture and Moxibustion (Tongrenjing), an Twenty-five Volumes on Five Subjects curative effects, the seven prescription meth- “the 39th year of Wanli [Qing emperor],” cor- 11th century Chinese classic. ods, the different medicinal effects of five responding to 1611. It also has inscriptions “Internal Medicine” (Naegyeong) presents tastes, the different medicinal properties of A complete set of the first print which was disclosing that Yi Hui-heon and Yun Ji-mi the typical symptoms and treatments for in- smell and taste, and herbal medicine process- preserved at the Joseon royal archives in Mt. from the Royal Infirmary served as proofread- ternal diseases under 26 categories. They in- ing skills from gathering to drying, weighing, Odae is now at the National Library of Ko- ers before the book went to press in 1613. An- clude body shape, soul, spirit, energy, blood, measuring, boiling and making pilules, as rea. There are a few more extant editions, the other inscription says a copy of the first print dreams, voice, language, mucus, fluid block- latest of which are the two editions printed 3. Varieties of Eastern me- was received at the royal archives in Mt. Odae age, five viscera and six entrails, liver, heart, dicinal herbs and others. in 1814, the 14th year of Sunjo. China pub- in 1614. Each volume has the name and title spleen, lung, kidneys, gall bladder, stomach, lished three editions under Qianlong, Jiaqing of Heo Jun, the representative author, right small intestines, large intestines, bladder, tri- and Guangxu emperors during the Qing Dy- next to its title. He was assisted by the royal ple burner, loculus, worms, urine, and excre- nasty, and two later editions in Shanghai and physicians Yang Rye-su, Kim Eung-taek, Yi ment. Taiwan. Japan’s first edition was published by Myeong-won and Jeong Rye-nam, and the “External Medicine” (Oehyeong) also divides Kyoto Shorin in 1724. The Osaka Shorin pub- literati doctor Jeong Jak. lished a new edition with Japanese postposi- illnesses derived from external problems into 6. Various versions of 3 The first two volumes contain a list of titles, 26 categories based on parts of the body, and 6 tions in 1799. Dongeui Bogam. 45 | 46 Intangible Heritage

The palace culinary art began to be taught Crown Prince Sado, was buried. to a limited number of interested individuals The royal family didn’t always follow such in the 1940s. In 1970, the government desig- a luxurious diet. Their eating habits varied nated Joseon palace cuisine as Important In- in accordance with the personal penchants tangible Cultural Property No. 38 so it could The Flavors and Styles of Korea of the reigning king or other circumstances. be efficiently preserved and passed on to According to accounts of surviving atten- future generations. The Institute for Korean Royal Cuisine of Joseon Dynasty dants of the two last Korean kings, Gojong Royal Cuisine opened in 1971 as an exclu- sive institution to teach the royal culinary art and Sunjong, and the wife of Sunjong, the to the public. Han Hui-sun, the first master kings and queens of Joseon had a full-course Text by Han Bok-ryeo | Master Chef, Joseon Royal Cuisine chef, died in 1972 and her student, Hwang breakfast and dinner, a simple early morning Hye-seong, took over her title. meal and lunch, plus a night snack. A full- course meal consisted of two kinds of rice, a Korean royal cuisine, as it is known today, who served Empress Sunjeonghyo, the Dietary Life and Culture in Royal Palace soup, a stew, a braised or steamed dish, kim- refers to the highest standard of traditional wife of Sunjong, and other members of the The royal palace was the center of cultural chi and sauces, in addition to 12 side dishes Korean cooking for the daily meals, feasts Yi royal family, who lived in a quarter of life in the monarchial society of Joseon. The made of meat, vegetables and fish, of which Changdeok Palace until the 1960s. They and banquets served in the royal palaces of diet in the royal palace, in particular, was three were seasonal delicacies. These were taught their cooking know-how through the Joseon Dynasty (1392−1910). During perfected by court ladies responsible for the served on a red-lacquered round table and personal demonstrations or verbal explana- this last monarchial period, Korean food palace kitchen and professional cooks who alongside it was placed a smaller square table tion. Among the four court ladies who had culture achieved remarkable refinement in worked with the best ingredients from across for a hot pot. Another side table, also round worked for the Joseon palace under Gojong terms of cooking skills, table settings, ritual the country. and red-lacquered, was for browned rice tea and Sunjong, and lived into the 1960s, Han protocols and etiquette. and extra vessels. All of the tableware was Hui-sun was the only one who served solely The royal family had several regular meals made of silver. Early morning meals usu- The palace dishes became popularized on the kitchen staff after entering the palace a day, including early morning and night ally consisted of cereal porridge, dried fish through court ladies and male palace cooks, at age 13. snacks and afternoon refreshments in addi- or meat, and watery kimchi. Lunch was usu- tion to breakfast, lunch and dinner. Feasts for weddings and birthdays usually continued at least for three days, requiring numerous tables set with diverse foods for various indi- viduals and groups.

The Annals of King Yeongjo (Yeongjo sillok) says “the king and other royal family mem- bers have had five meals each day since olden days,” but Yeongjo (r. 1724−1776) actually ate only three times a day. Protocols of Trav- el to Royal Grave in Eulmyo Year (Wonhaeng eulmyo jeongni uigwe) provides a glimpse of more sumptuous royal dining habits. Ac-

cording to the illustrated palace document, 2. The late Han Hui-sun, a seven meals were served in a day during the court lady of the Joseon feasts for the 60th birthday of Princess Hy- Dynasty and the first chef of royal cuisine to be of- egyeong, mother of King Jeongjo. The feasts ficially named a “human took place in 1795 in Hwaseong, the pres- cultural treasure,” photo- 1. The Joseon king’s typi- graphed when she was 78 1 2 cal dining table. ent-day Suwon, where her ill-fated husband, years old. 47 | 48 Intangible Heritage

royal family members, commemorative an- implements, and tableware. These records niversaries, banquets for foreign emissaries, are valuable sources for studying traditional the king’s outings, veneration rites for royal palace cuisine. ancestors and funerals were among formal In order for the palace cuisine of the Joseon events that were conducted with elegance Dynasty to be reborn as a cultural legacy and formality. Temporary executive offices with relevance to contemporary people, its (dogam) were set up to oversee these events inherent value as a potential global food cul- seamlessly and the daily procedures were ture to improve the future quality of life has carefully recorded with necessary illustra- to be discovered. The global interest in well- tions. These elaborate royal protocols (uig- being and lifestyles of health and sustain- we) were perused by the king and preserved ability (LOHAS) can be a vital clue in this 3 as reference for similar events in the future. endeavor. The royal cuisine of the Joseon 5. A scene from a banquet 3. A dessert table with tea ally noodles in hot or cold soup, which was Banquets in the royal palace were for cel- for the 60th birthday of and cookies. period is an ingenious food culture as well as Princess Hyegyeong, held served with boiled and pressed meat, raw ebrating the birthdays of the king and the an attractive source of nature-friendly health in 1795 at the temporary fish, pan-fried delicacies, and a royal hot pot. queen, the investiture of crown prince and palace in Hwaseong, as foods for the following reasons: depicted by court painters. A full-course meal with 12 side dishes apart other auspicious events in the royal family This is part of an eight- as well as for welcoming visiting foreign en- First, the Joseon royal cuisine wisely har- panel screen with docu- from other basic foods would seem to be mentary pictures depicting monizes the thought that good food is good excessive waste and abuse of privilege in voys. All detailed procedures of these events, the trip of King Jeongjo, medicine and the cosmic view of yin and 5 the son of the princess. the eyes of ordinary people. But the king’s including preparations, table settings, lists of food ingredients and their quantities and the yang and the five elements. Second, it fea- Royal cuisine as introduced in the palace dining table, featuring dishes made of ingre- serving orders were essential subjects of the tures a broad variety of dishes from seasonal protocols may be studied along with cookery dients from around the country, helped the official records. Meals were served on indi- vegetables, seafood and meat of animals and books of the noble class, whose food culture ruler secluded in his palace to get a glimpse vidual tables, from the king and his family to birds by using diverse cooking methods. was influenced by the palace cuisine, so they of the lives of people and the changing sea- royal relatives, musicians, dancers and sol- Third, animal and vegetable ingredients are can be restored as a synthetic art with global sons without traveling to every region. Also, diers, in varying scale and settings. well harmonized and appropriate amounts appeal. In this regard, the drama “Dae Jang the dishes rich in nutrition, taste and color of natural condiments are mixed to create Geum” (a.k.a “Jewel in the Palace”) greatly were essential for the king’s health. Eating Royal cuisine was seldom documented, dishes with varied tastes and balanced nu- contributed to introducing the scientific and good food was tantamount to taking good however, while other skills such as court trients. Fourth, condiments with outstanding aesthetic aspects of Korean food culture and medicine. music and dances were recorded in texts medicinal effects such as garlic, ginger, chili enhancing Korea’s image around the world. and illustrations so they can be restored in Foods for Palace Banquets and pepper, as well as herb medicine mate- In an age of cultural competition, the popular original styles. As cooking was not consid- rials such as ginseng, jujube, cinnamon and television serial drama set a great precedent Ceremonies and rituals formed a crucial part ered an art but a part of everyday life and licorice are used in daily cooking. Fifth, it for other Korean cultural products. of life in the royal palace. Weddings of the foods were constantly made and consumed, is a low-calorie cooking method that uses few people seemed to think of recording the 4. Royal hot pot (sinseollo) vegetable oils such as sesame and perilla oils represents the refined pal- cooking methods and materials in detail, let appropriately. Sixth, it is based on nature- ace cooking style. alone painting the images of cooked dishes, friendly slow food and highly nutritional and for posterity. functional food, such as kimchi, soybean The situation is not so lamentable only, paste, soy sauce, chili sauce and pickled sea- however. The royal protocols of state ban- food. Seventh, the food is tasty and pleasant quets (jinyeon uigwe) and menus (eumsik to see as it harmonizes five tastes and five 6. The popular TV drama “Dae Jang Geum” (a.k.a. balgi) contain descriptions of table settings colors. Eighth, a healthy preparation method “Jewel in the Palace”) has in different types, names of dishes, cook- in which all ingredients are carefully cut, contributed to the promo- tion of traditional Korean 4 6 ing materials and their quantities, cooking shredded or chopped helps digestion. cooking and palace culture. Quarterly Magazine of the Cultural Heritage Administration

Cultural Heritage Administration, Republic of Korea Tel | 82-42-481-4731 Fax | 82-42-481-4759 http://english.cha.go.kr

Published | may 25, 2010

Published by | Cultural Heritage Administration Republic of Korea

Publication | Yi Kyung-hoon management Director of International Affairs Division

Content | Yeo Sung-hee, Ahn Jin-young, Kim Min-ok coordination

Translation | Lee Kyong-hee

Proofreading | Ted Chan

Design ∙ Editing | Graphic Korea Co., Ltd

Printed by | Graphic Korea Co., Ltd

Cultural Heritage Administration, 2010

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