Monday, January 29, 2024

Where to buy Hanji paper in Seoul (Post update - 2024)

Hello, Hanji paper and craft enthusiasts! 

Here is a blog post I wrote in 2018 that explained where to find Hanji paper and Hanji craft supplies in Seoul. Since the publication of this post, many things have changed, and I think it would be helpful to have more updated information.

Unfortunately, some of the updates I have to offer are rather disappointing, as two of the three shops are no longer open to the public. 

While it is possible to order supplies and paper through their websites, it is no longer possible for shoppers to browse Doori Hanji and Il Shin Pil Bang shops in person. 

Dong Yang Hanji is still open, but its location has changed. Please refer to the blog post below with the updates written in red.

If you know of any other shops in Seoul where you can buy Hanji craft supplies (beyond paper), please leave a comment below.

Thank you!

Natalie

* * *

Many people visiting or living in Seoul have been contacting me over the years to ask me where I buy my Hanji paper and supplies.

Here are some of my favorite spots to find high-quality Hanji paper, tools, and supplies.

Insadong is *the* place

If you are looking for high-quality Hanji paper and Hanji craft supplies, I would recommend you head over to the Insadong district. Renowned for its lovely tea shops, art galleries and antique stores, Insadong is also a great place to get Hanji paper and craft supplies, as well as art supplies for calligraphy and painting.

Many shops in Insadong sell Hanji paper, but there are three specific Hanji craft shops that I like to visit when I go to Insadong: Doori Hanji (두리한지공방),  Il-Shin Pil Bang (일신당 필방) and Dong Yang Hanji (동양한지).



Doori Hanji (두리한지공방)


If you are looking for Hanji paper and Hanji craft supplies, your first stop should definitely be Doori Hanji. You will find this shop tucked in on the top floor of a narrow building, at the end of a steep stairway. Do not let this fool you; once you get up there, you're in Hanji heaven!

Doori Hanji has a wide variety of Hanji paper, along with a great selection of tools, material and supplies, cardboard shapes, cut-out designs, souvenirs, etc. Everything you might need to start Hanji crafts can be found there. The owner is very friendly and speaks English; I have always been welcomed warmly there.

The front section of the shop is actually a workshop where you can see craftspeople work, and many beautiful items are on display, including tea tables, cabinets, lamps, and many others. I have heard that some classes and workshops are available, but I do not have details regarding that. I would suggest you ask the owner when you visit the shop.

What you can find at Doori Hanji:
- Wide selection of plain-coloured and printed Hanji paper (made in Korea)
- Crafting tools (cutters, scissors, brushes, spatulas, cutting mats, punches, etc.)
- Cut-out designs (cardboard and paper)
- Cardboard shapes and kits to make countless types of items, including furniture, boxes, chests, tissue box cases, cell phone stands, hand mirrors, etc.
- Materials to create lamp shades
- Glues and varnishes
- Hardware (hinges, handles, etc.)
- Korean traditional souvenirs

Doori Hanji also has a great website where you can order supplies and paper: www.doorihanji.co.kr.

It is my go-to page when I wish to order tools or materials to craft, and I couldn't be happier with the service and speedy delivery.

Address:
Insadong Gil 137-2, 3rd floor, Jong-ro, Seoul
서울 종로구 인사동길 9 3층
Phone number: 02-734-6256

Website (in Korean only): www.doorihanji.co.kr

UPDATE: Doori Hanji does not have a physical store anymore. All craft supplies, including paper, shapes, hardware, and other items can be ordered online through their website.

Doori Hanji is open on weekdays from 9:00am to 6:00pm, and from 9:00am to 1:00pm on Saturdays. They are closed on Sundays.

How to get there:
Take the subway to Jorong-3Ga (Exit 11).
It's on the main Insadong street, across from the Insa-Korea souvenir shop.



Il-Shin Pil Bang (일신당 필방)

Another great place to shop for Hanji paper and Hanji craft supplies is Il-Shin Pil Bang. This store is located on the same street (the main Insadong street) as Doori Hanji, across from Starbucks. You can see the beautiful lamps hanging in the window.

Il-Shin Pil Bang has a great selection of Hanji paper, along with tools, hardware, material and supplies, cardboard shapes, etc. It also sells calligraphy and painting supplies, which include brushes, ink stones and ink, paper, and scrolls.

The couple who owns this business is lovely; they are always kind and helpful, and I always enjoy visiting their shop.

What you can find at Il-Shin Pil Bang:
- Wide selection of plain-coloured and printed Hanji paper (made in Korea)
- Selection of Japanese printed paper
- Crafting tools
- Cardboard shapes and kits
- Materials to create lamps and lamp shades
- Glues and varnishes
- Hardware
- Calligraphy supplies, including brushes, ink stones, and paper
- Painting supplies, including brushes, ink and scrolls
- Calligraphy and painting books







Il-Shin Pil Bang also has a website where you can order supplies and paper: www.ilsindang.co.kr.

Address:
Insadong Gil 15, Seong-bo Building 2nd floor, Jong-ro, Seoul
서울 종로구 인사동길 15 (성보빌딩 2층)
Phone number: 02-733-8100

Website (in Korean only): www.ilsindang.co.kr

Il-Shin Pil Bang is open daily, from 10:00am to 7:30pm.

How to get there:
Take the subway to Jorong-3Ga (Exit 11).
It's on the main Insadong street, across from Starbucks

UPDATE: Il-Shin Pil Bang does not have a physical store anymore. All craft supplies, including paper, hardware and tools can be ordered online through their website.


Dong Yang Hanji (동양한지)

The last, but not least, shop I would recommend is Dong Yang Hanji.

What makes Dong Yang such a special place is the exquisite craftsmanship. Some of the paper you can find at Dong Yang is simply unique, not only in its quality but its originality.

If you are looking for high-quality, handmade Korean Hanji paper, Dong Yang is the place to go.

It is a rather small shop, filled to the rim with exquisite paper. The steep prices of certain items reflect their high-quality, so it isn't necessary a place for pure beginners.


Dong Yang is located on the same street (the main Insadong street) as Doori Hanji and Il-Shin Pil Bang, on the ground floor. You can see piles of colorful paper and canvasses at the entrance of the shop.

Dong Yang has a fantastic selection of Hanji paper, mainly handmade. They also sell an assortment of plain-coloured and printed Hanji, along with hand dyed and hand woven papers.

When you visit Dong Yang it's all about the paper; the owners aren't necessarily the warmest people, but the quality of their craftsmanship speaks for itself.



What you can find at Dong Yang Hanji:
- Selection of high-quality hand dyed and handmade Hanji paper (made in Korea)
- Selection of plain-coloured and printed Hanji paper (made in Korea)
- Notebooks and stationery
- Canvasses and brushes
- Korean traditional souvenirs (fans, pencil cases, etc.)





Dong Yang has a website, but it is not possible to order paper online at this time: hanjipark.modoo.at

Address:
Insadong Gil 5, Pagoda Building 1st floor, Jong-ro, Seoul
서울 종로구 인사동길 5 (파고다빌딩 1층)
Dong Yang Hanji has moved. Here is the address of their new shop in Insadong:
Insadong Gil 4, number 7, first floor
서울 종로구 인사동4길 7 1층
Phone number: 02-734-1881

Website (in Korean only): hanjipark.modoo.at

How to get there:
Take the subway to Anguk Station (Exit 6).
Walk down the main Insadong street, take a left on Insadong Gil 4 (there is a money exchange counter on the corner). It is four doors down, on your left.


* * *

Do you happen to know any other great places to purchase Hanji paper and Hanji craft supplies in Seoul?

If you do, please do not hesitate to leave a comment to share the information with all the Hanji lovers out there!

Thank you!














Saturday, April 16, 2022

Deer : A Sacred Animal With Deep Roots in Korean Taoism

by Adeline Panamaroff




When Taoism came to Korea, symbolic animals and elements were usually depicted in art as separate entities. It was in Korea where the Symbols of Longevity came to be grouped together on landscape paintings, folding screens, furniture, hanji, and embroidered pieces. Later on when Buddhism came to Korea, it also absorbed the idea of the sacred 10-12 symbols. Today they can still be seen grouped together, but smaller objects may be adorned with only one or two of the symbols. An object, box, card, fan or other item that is adored with hanji that contains deer imagery is meant to help remind the owner of the traits of the animal, grace, gentle mannerisms, and quiet temperament.

Traditional deer pattern
 used for Hanji crafts

The white deer that is found in Korea has long been part of a family of sacred animals and elements that entered the country’s lexicon of deities as far back as when the original people of Korea were still a tribal people. Animism from this time period later melded with the imported Taoism, around the 5th Century CE, and also with Buddhist beliefs, both of which came from China. As a member of the Symbols of Longevity,

Ship-jangsaeng 十長生 십장생, the deer is one of 10-12 other animals and natural elements that are often depicted together on classic Korean landscape art. Together these symbols, depicted together, were at the height of their popularity during the Joseon era (1392-1910). They are meant to remind the viewer that living with the correct mindfulness now, in this life, to be in harmony with oneself, others and to respect nature, are the basics of Taoist philosophies. 

The graceful, long neck, and fleetful feet of these quiet, gentle animals can also easily be admired for their sleek, graceful bodies. In ancient tribal times, deer were believed to be a connection between the heavenly deities and their earthly representatives. Deers’ herd mentality has also lent to the belief that deer are community oriented, making sure that no one is left behind while they are on the move.


Traditional deer pattern used for Korean crafts,
including Hanji

The deer, silent, living its life out in the peaceful woodland, is the representation of being in harmony with nature. Gently taking what you need, and respectfully leaving nature intact, can be a lesson for everyone. Visual reminders of how we need to be harmonious, gentle, and mindful of each other, is something everyone should strive for, and can be found on beautifully executed pieces of hanji art. 


References:

Koreaners (koreners.com)

http://www.lifeinkorea.com/culture/patterns/patterns.cfm?Subject=Animals

https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/2004/06/18/columns/91FOUNTAIN93As-symbols-deer-have-an-extra-burden/2430032.html

http://www.san-shin.org/Ship-jangsaeng_Longevity-1.html

https://myseoulbox.com/blogs/seoul-blog/what-is-animal-symbolism-its-connection-with-korean-culture





Tuesday, February 1, 2022

The Year of the Black Tiger!

by Adeline Panamaroff

The Lunar New Year of 2022 celebrates the tiger. In Korea, however, this is the year of the black tiger. What makes this year special you may ask? Well, traditionally people born in the year of the tiger, one of the 12 Chinese Zodiac animals, have been seen by Koreans as exhibiting characteristics of fearlessness, adventurousness and restless energy. The Korean word for this zodiac year is iminnyeon (임인년), a combination of three concepts. “Im” (임) is the Chinese symbol for black, “in” (인) is the Chinese symbol for tiger, and “nyeon” (년) is the Korean word for year. 


Tiger plate, created by HanjiNaty, available in the Etsy boutique

Tigers are revered in Korea as the form that one of the founding deities of the nation took when entering into a challenge with a bear. According to the legend, if both mammals could eat only mugwort for 100 days, they would take on human form. Part way through the tiger lost patience and withdrew from the contest. In many Korean folk tales tigers are also seen as deities of mountains. The origins of this probably lay in the fact that Korea, a land of many mountains, once had a large tiger population. This is why the tiger is used so often as a mascot for national sports teams and organisations, to show the world Korea’s fearless fighting spirit. 


Tissue box case by HanjiNaty


Part of ringing in the new year in Korea is seeing the animal that the zodiac cycle focuses on. For many, this includes a visit to local zoos or art galleries that may feature exhibits that showcase the animal in question. Seeing examples of tigers in zoos and in art is considered a way to bestow luck in the viewer. Hanging paintings of tigers around one’s home is also seen as a way to dispel evil energies. No matter how you choose to celebrate the year of the tiger, 2022 promises to be full of adventure and lively energy thanks to the influence of all the people in your life who were born in the year of this zodiac animal. 


Tiger pen holder, created by HanjiNaty, available in the Etsy boutique

Adeline Panamaroff is a freelance writer located in Edmonton, Alberta. Her writing can be found in such places as Yatta-Tachi, Anime News Network, and the Edmonton Stitcher. To find out more about her work go to www.adelinepanamaroff.com


Sources:

https://m.koreatimes.co.kr/pages/article.asp?newsIdx=321458

http://m.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20211230000724

https://artsandculture.google.com/exhibit/the-korean-tiger-icon-of-myth-and-culture-national-museum-of-korea/rgIC_exZf_u-JA?hl=en


Tuesday, December 28, 2021

Unique Christmas Ornaments!

HanjiNaty Christmas ornaments are truly unique! 

Carefully crafted by hand, each ornament can add flare and style to your holiday decor.

They are available in two shapes: ball and star.



Each ornament is delicately covered by hand with a selection of high-quality Korean Hanji paper strips. 

Every ornament is unique as it displays a singular combination of papers, colors, and textures.



The ornaments, made of wood, are then coated with a water-based varnish to ensure durability and ease of care. For a final touch, a Hanji paper rope is attached so you can easily hang your ornaments from your tree, window or door frame, or.... anywhere, really!







Sunday, September 20, 2020

Don't Miss the HMK Online Market!

 HanjiNaty is thrilled to be a regular vendor in the Handmade Market Korea (HMK), an organization dedicated to offer marketing opportunities to small businesses from all over Korea. HMK is a collective meant to showcase the amazing work of artisans, artists, and small business owners.

HMK online market hosts online markets on Facebook every month and features vendors selling handmade items as well as small businesses and home businesses located in Korea.

The HMK online market is a fantastic opportunity for artisans and artists to showcase their work and for shoppers to buy unique items in the comfort of their home or on their mobile device! Easy, convenient, and safe; what else can we ask for?

For every market, dozens of vendors make their products available to buyers in a safe and convenient environment! To shop, simply join the HMK Online market page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/HMKonlineMarket/

The next Online market will be held on October 18 (Sunday), from 2:00pm to 10:00pm.



HMK is regularly publishing its newsletter, featuring artisans and artists, and announcing future events. You can register for the newsletter to receive it directly in your inbox.



Tuesday, June 25, 2019

June 29-30: Come to the Art & Craft Market in Seoul!


Come to Itaewon on June 29 and 30 to enjoy the amazing Art & Craft Market, organized by I Art Seoul!

HanjiNaty will be there to offer you a great selection of handcrafted earrings, hair accessories, and small deco items.

The Market will be open from 11am to 4pm on Saturday (June 29), and from 1pm to 6pm on Sunday (June 30).

The Gyeongridan Street Festival
on June 29 and 30!
Do not miss this chance to enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of Itaewon, as the Market will coincide with the Gyeongridan Street Festival that will be held the same weekend. Street art, buskers, street food, great arts and crafts: what is there not to love??

Amazing vendors offering handmade products

Many vendors will be there on both days to offer a fantastic selection of handcrafted jewelry, accessories, baby items, beauty products, and delicious treats.

Here is a list of the vendors you can meet at the Market :

HanjiNaty

Handmade accessories and jewelry made of high-quality Hanji paper. A traditional Korean craft with a Western twist!

On site Saturday and Sunday (June 29-30).


Lizzie's Fizzies

Shower Fizzies - If you prefer a shower to a bath, homemade Lizzie's Fizzies are the perfect option for you.
They're made with high quality sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and citric acid, just like shower bombs. But rather than placing them into your tub, you place them on the floor of the shower. The water and steam activates the fizzing reaction, releasing aroma into the air.

On site Saturday and Sunday (June 29-30).


Beau and co shop

Specialize in handmade baby and children’s clothing and various toys/ teething accessories. I use luxury fabrics mostly European and most are certified organic.

On site Saturday and Sunday (June 29-30).


Dooloo Kids Shop

Handmade baby and children’s accessories. All items are 100% handmade with beautiful fabrics from Korea, Canada and Japan. Custom orders are welcome!

On site Saturday (June 29).



Studio Bodhi


Art studio specializing in handpainted artwork and homedecor products focused on Indian art. Includes products like kettles, trays, bottles, boxes, plates, canvas etc handpainted using high quality acrylic paints. Also conduct workshops - custom orders for sale, inquiries workshops are welcome

On site Saturday (June 29).



Tiffany Peek

Geeky, kick@ss artwork. Stickers, prints, and collectables featuring original comics and anime-inspired artwork drawn traditionally and digitally.

On site Saturday (June 29).


Anxiety and Kimbap


Korean themed and pop culture inspired enamel pins.
On site Saturday (June 29).


Catherine Carrard by Catherine C.


Cards, bookmarks and my book "Empreintes", a collection of poems, short novels (in French) with woodcut engravings.


On site Saturday (June 29).


Henna Art - Beauty and Glam Life

Beautiful henna art with 100% natural henna dye. I do pretty white henna art as well with my homemade synthetic white henna.

On site Saturday (June 29).


DN’s Odds & Ends


Vegan homemade goods
Soy-free tofu and natural homemade deodorant
On site Sunday (June 30).


Poms & Posies


Handmade heirloom quality crochet items for the little ones in your life. Specializing in 100% cotton bibs, bonnets and bows.

On site Sunday (June 30).


Gwaja Bar

Handcrafted Vintage Chocolates and Confections.
Freshly made Chocolates taste better! From Fancies to Novelties, Chocolate Bars to Gift Sets Gwaja Bar makes everything by hand from recipes that are up to 100 years old. Special orders are also available for a special occasion, or just because!

On site Sunday (June 30).



How to get there?

I Art Seoul is located in Itaewon. Take the subway to Noksapyeong station (녹사평역) and take Exit no.2. Walk north on Noksapyeong-daero until you reach the large intersection where you can take an underpass to reach to other side.



See you there!