Geumsok Hwaljajang (Metal Movable Type Making)

Geumsok hwaljajang refers to a craftsperson who makes metal type and uses it to print books. Metal-type printing technology was invented for the first time in the world during the Goryeo period, though the exact date is unknown. It is recorded that the Goryeo court, which had moved its capital to Ganghwado Island in the 19th year of the reign of Emperor Gojong (1232), re-carved the Nammyeongcheon hwasang song jeungdoga, a metal-type edition originally printed at the Seojeokjeom (book office) in Gaegyeong; and the fact that the national ritual code Sangjeong yemun was printed with metal type shows that metal-type printing had already developed before this period. In the Joseon period, it was gradually improved and developed, centred on the central government offices. Korean metal type is made using a casting technique. The production process can be broadly divided into four stages — making the character model, making the mould, casting, and finishing — and is divided into two types according to the casting method. One is the wax-casting technique, in which each piece of type is individually shaped in wax, mainly used in the early period. The other is the sand-casting technique, in which a casting mould is made from a type model and then used for casting; this method became widespread after the early Gapinja type of the Joseon period. Metal type is a comprehensive artistic achievement built on calligraphy and encompassing a wide range of science and technology, and a traditional craft that demonstrates the excellence of the Korean people.

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Where it is

Region

Location not stated, Chungbuk

Designation

National Intangible Heritage · 국가무형유산