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.
Phone: 063-285-3003
Address: 전북특별자치도 전주시 완산구 팔달로 154
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!
