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Jangseung & Sotdae (Traditional Korean Totem Poles) Making Experience in Andong

Travel Activity
South Korea
Andong
5(1 Reviews)
Checked out by 2.5k travelers
Culture & Class

Availability

Every day

Minimum Pax

1 Person

Confirmed

Instantly

Ticket

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Meet Location
  • Mok Seok Won
Included
  • 60-min totem pole making experience
  • Materials and tools
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Jangseung & Sotdae (Traditional Korean Totem Poles) Making Experience in Andong Options

Jangseung (Totem Pole)

Sotdae (Bird Pole)

Overview

Make your own traditional Korean totem pole in Andong!

Did you know that Korea also has a totem pole culture? Jangsuengs and Sotdaes were placed in villages to use as landmarks and also to drive out bad spirits. Jangseungs are the large totem poles usually with the design of a face and Sotdaes are poles with a carved bird on the top (bird poles). On this experience, learn aside from the famous wood master, Jong Heung Kim, and make your own miniature version!

Why this experience?
  • Learn about traditional Korean folk culture
  • Experience making your own Jangseung or Sotdae the authentic way
  • Take home your masterpiece as an awesome souvenir


▲ Jangseung (Totem Pole)
Jangseung are traditional Korean totem poles made of wood or stone, traditionally placed at village entrances, roadsides, or temple gates. Rooted in folk belief since the 16th century, they served as guardian deities believed to protect communities from evil spirits and illness while also marking boundaries and directions.
  • Height: 50~80cm


▲ Sotdae (Bird Pole)
Sotdae are traditional Korean bird poles, featuring a carved wooden or stone bird set atop a tall pole or pillar and revered as a village guardian symbol. With origins tracing back to ancient folk beliefs of the Samhan period, Sotdae were associated with prayers for protection, prosperity, and abundant harvests. Often placed near village entrances or beside Jangseung, the bird, commonly a duck, represents wishes for good fortune and harmony within the community.
  • Height: 50~60cm

[About the woodmaster, Jong Heung Kim]
  • Most recognized jangsueng and sotdae making master in Korea
  • Holder of 2 "Important Intangible Cultural Heritage Asset" (No. 69 & 108)
  • Invited to perform jangseung making at Queen Elizabeth's visit to Korea event
  • His jangseungs were chosen as gifts for world leaders such as George Bush Sr., George Bush Jr., Moon Jae In, and many other diplomatic leaders
  • His workplace, Mok Seok Won, was visited by diplomatic leaders such as former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon, and former US Ambassador to South Korea, Mark Lippert

[About the Jangseung & Sotdae making experience]
  • Sketch the designs
  • Take the bark off the wood
  • Carve the designs
  • Paint colors and write your name
*It will take about 60 minutes for the whole process. However, depending on the design and skill level, it may take up to 2 hours.

Price

OptionPriceIncludedIncluded
Jangseung (Totem Pole)
Per jangseung/person
- 60-min totem pole making experience
- Materials and tools
Sotdae (Bird Pole)
Per sotdae/person
- 60-min totem pole making experience
- Materials and tools

How to book

  • Complete your booking.
    1. Complete your booking.
  • Check your email.
    2. Check your email.
  • Enjoy it.
    3. Enjoy it.

Cancellation policy

All times are based on Korea Standard Time (KST) (GMT + 9 hours)
3 days before the reserved date: 100% refund
2 days before the reserved date: 70% refund
1 day before the reserved date: 50% refund
The reserved date or less: Non-refundable
*If you would like to reschedule your reservation, please check the availability with us at least 3 days before the original reserved date (no later than 5:00pm KST).

FAQ

This is a hands-on Korean traditional craft workshop where participants create their own Jangseung (totem pole) or Sotdae (bird pole). The experience introduces traditional symbolism while allowing you to carve, paint, and personalize your piece.
The experience includes sketching your design, removing the bark from the wood, carving the patterns, painting colors, and writing your name on the finished piece.
The full process takes about 60 minutes. Depending on your design and skill level, it may take up to 2 hours.

Destination

Mok Seok Won

Address: 246-2 Haheo-ri, Pungcheon-myeon, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

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