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

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!

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

[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.

• Jangseung: 50~80cm height
• Sotdae: 50~60cm height