Where to Find the Best Hanji Paper in Jeonju

If you have a chance to visit the city of Jeonju, in the province of Jeollabuk-do, you will discover its rich and enticing culture! Jeonju is famous for many cultural treasures, including the beloved bibimbap and...  Hanji paper!

As I have lived in Iksan for nearly two decades, Jeonju has always been my go-to destination for everything related to Hanji. I remember discovering my dearest material of predilection back in 2004, when visiting the Hanok Village for the first time. Over the years, I have visited Jeonju countless times, and even participated in different editions of the Jeonju Hanji Festival, in 2015, 2016, and 2017. 

Here are my recommendations for the best places to shop for Hanji paper in Jeonju:

Pagoda Hanji (파고다한지)

The Pagoda Hanji store has been open for many years and has always been my favorite place to shop for Hanji paper. The owner is lovely and the shop is filled with gorgeous papers of all kinds, including patterned paper, thick paper for lamps and other projects, rolls of Hanji wallpaper, and more.

The selection is great and the prices have always been reasonable.  

When you visit Pagoda, you will be amazed by the wide range of paper available. The shop is filled floor to ceiling with piles of neatly stacked Hanji paper. Ask for help when shopping; the owner will assist you (she usually prefers to handle the stacks of paper herself, to avoid any mishaps). She is incredibly patient and sweet.

Pagoda also sell some lovely souvenirs and Korean traditional decorative items. It is a great destination to pick up some high-quality gifts made in Korea, including Hanji paper, ceramic, and other crafts.

Pagoda (파고다한지)

Phone: 063-285-3003

Address: 전북특별자치도 전주시 완산구 팔달로 154

 

Link to Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3R62p6Hb1gzWPGht7

Hang-Rim Dang-Pil Bang (한림당필방) 

Other good place to shop for Hanji paper in Jeonju is Hang-Rim Dang-Pil Bang. It is located on the same boulevard as Pagoda Hanji, and it's been only open a few years in its current location.

This shop offers a good selection of plain-colored and patterned (printed) Hanji paper, in an extensive range of colors. It also specializes in calligraphy supplies, including brushes, paper, ink, and books related to traditional Korean calligraphy.

It is worth mentioning that Hang-Rim Dang-Pil Bang has an interesting selection of metallic printed Hanji paper, including plain gold and silver printer paper. Its selection of traditionally made (handmade) Hanji paper is more limited than Pagoda, but if you are looking for something with more modern printing and patterns, it is the best place.

Hang-Rim Dang-Pil Bang

Phone: 063-284-9494

Address: 전북 전주시 완산구 팔달로 200 1층

Link to Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/11LDT6yt2BNRCGiUA

Hanji Traditional Paper Factory and Cooperative Shop (전주한지공동판매장)

This hidden gem is an absolute must-see for anyone interested in Hanji paper, and in Korean culture in general. It is tucked away in a back alley in the Hanok traditional village. There is an artisanal workshop where they still make the Hanji paper by hand; it is beautiful to watch, so make sure to visit in the morning or early afternoon while the artisans are at work.

After visiting the small factory, stop at their boutique to shop for the most beautiful handcrafted Hanji paper. You can also find amazing souvenirs including Hanji socks, ties, pouches, notebooks, etc.

전주한지공동판매장

Phone: 063-211-2011

Address: 전북 전주시 완산구 한지길 112-5

Website (in Korean only): https://www.hanjishop.kr/

Link to Google Maps: 전북 전주시 완산구 한지길 112-5

If you know any other good spots, please make sure to leave a comment below! 

Happy Hanji shopping!

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!

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

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

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!

The next HMK Online market is on June 13!

 More details to come!

In the meantime, please join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/HMKonlineMarket 

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.