History

• The color of clothing and embroidered symbols on them have been used in history to define the social position of people in Korea for centuries. The recorded history of Korea points to the Koryo Dynasty of 1215 to 1368 as a time period when traditional Korean embroidery flourished. In addition to its use in decorating personal items and creating artwork of decorated scenes; donations of embroidered items with religious symbols were donated to Buddhist temples.
  
  The Joseon Dynasty, dating from 1392 to 1910, established the use of embroidered insignias that were worn by civil and military officials. Embroidery studios were established within government offices. It was during this dynasty that embroidery gained its true foothold in Korean culture, becoming something recognized as a virtuous craft and activity for women according to the Korean Cultural Service.
  
  

Embroidery in 20th Century Korea

• Western influence and Japanese occupation of Korea led to the diffusion of traditional Korean culture in the earlier decades of the 20th century. Hahn Sang Su, born in 1935 in what is now South Korea, began researching Korean traditional embroidery. She felt that it had been neglected in favor of a Western style of life. She opened an institute dedicated to the study of traditional embroidery in Seoul in 1963. She published several books on the subject and remained dedicated to promoting the craft in Korean society for several decades. In 1984 she, herself, was honored as a Living Treasure for the Craft of Embroidery according to the Korean Cultural Service.
  
  

Korea's Traditional Embroidered Crafts

• A Bojagi is a square piece of cloth that is used in traditional Korean culture to wrap items. These are often embroidered with simple and sometime ornate designs. Wedding gowns and ceremonial wear are some of the backdrops for beautiful embroidered designs. Silk folding-screens and tapestries are also embroidered using this craft.
  
  

Museums

• Seoul is home to museums which feature traditional Korean embroidery from previous centuries.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  There are a number of museums which display the historical and modern craft of Korean embroidery. Included in these are the Hansangsu Embroidery Museum, dedicated to traditional embroidery. Additionally, The Traditional Culture Experience Hall and the Korea House feature displays, but also hands-on programs, of Korean traditional embroidery.