Choi Seong-woo recognized as ‘Court Flower Making’ holder… “Revitalization of heritage expected”
(Seoul=Yonhap News) Reporter Kim Ye-na: Artisans who have preserved and perfected the beauty of our traditional culture have been recognized as holders of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on the 9th that it recognized Kim Young-i (72) and Kim Young-hee (75) as holders of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage in the field of ‘Embroidery.’
Additionally, in the field of ‘Court Flower Making,’ Choi Seong-woo (65) was recognized as a holder.
‘Embroidery’ refers to the skill of threading multiple colored threads through a needle to create patterns on fabric, or artisans possessing that skill.
It is considered a formative activity that goes beyond decorating the surface of textiles to give glimpses into people’s lives and customs.
Kim Young-i has honed her embroidery skills for 55 years after learning from the late holder Han Sang-soo in 1970 and has been active in transmitting this cultural heritage since becoming an education instructor in 2008.
Kim Young-hee learned embroidery craft from holder Choi Yu-hyeon in 1966 and has dedicated 59 years to sustaining and promoting Korea’s traditional embroidery.
It has been 29 years since new holders were recognized in the field of embroidery since 1996.
‘Court Flower Making’ refers to flowers crafted for royal performances or ceremonies.
Various materials like silk and ramie were meticulously processed and dyed to create these flowers, which symbolized the authority, rank, and dignity of the court and were used to symbolize peace, longevity, and more.
Choi Seong-woo is the son of the current holder, artisan Hwang Su-ro (real name Hwang Eul-soon).
He naturally acquired the skills by assisting his mother’s work and has been conducting exhibitions, lectures, education, and various other activities as the director of the ‘Korean Court Flower Museum’ since 2020.
The Cultural Heritage Administration stated, “With this recognition of the holders, it is expected to bring energy to the heritage field,” and “We will continue to recruit successors to expand the foundation of heritage transmission.”