DIY Hand Mirror in Bukchon

Seoul, South Korea — Bukchon Hanok Village, literally means northern traditional village, is situated between Jongmyo Shrine and two famous palaces namely Gyeongbuk andChangdeok. Most visitors and tourists merely take photos at this very spot of the famous traditional village

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but rarely grab the chance to experience handicraft-making programs and workshops.

This was my hand mirror-making experience in one of the hanok homes in Bukchon village.

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The sides are covered with hanji (fibrous Korean paper) which is not just an ordinary paper but made from the inner bark of the mulberry. We placed an accessory at the end tip of the mirror, put it inside a pouch and the finished product looks like a hanbok (Korean traditional clothes). It took me about an hour to make this DIY hand mirror for personal use or as a gift to someone special.

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There are numerous craft making activities in the neighborhood such as hanji jewelry box, fans, cellphone charms, knot making and many more. Regardless of language barrier, the teacher demonstrates every procedure and helps the participants during the program.

I suggest you try and create these traditional crafts if you visit Korea or on your next visit. It’s fun and an alternative gift invested in time and effort instead of just buying them.

That’s all for now. Thank you for reading! :)