Wandering through the ubiquitous souvenir shops that grace the side markets of Insadong, I noticed a recurring symbol popping up, in large wall hangings to tiny mobile phone strings. In Korea, the maedeup or traditional knot, has survived centuries to become a national emblem.
Maedeup knots are specialized decorative knots that have been used widely among Korean goods–bags, tokens, belts, mobile charms, cards, gift wraps, etc. Tradition says that ornamental knotting evolved from Chinese good luck charms, spreading to Korea during the Three Kingdoms in the 1st century CE, and rising in popularity during the Joseon Dynasty (c.e. 1392-1897). Though experiencing a decline in the past few centuries, a revival was sparked in the 1960s by Jeong Yeon-su, the Master of Maedeup.
Initially used in religious ceremonies, cording has since graced the ornamentation of swords, clothes, and wedding decorations. Traditionally, Maedeup consists of a cord (kkeunmok), a knot (maedeup), and a tassel (sul). The trinity, as well as the natural symmetry of the knot, invokes harmony and consistency into the clothes or trinket on one end. There are approximately 33 types Korean knots, the most recognizable being the Bong Sul. Depending on the style of the knot, designs are representing a variety of symbols, from the lotus, ginger, butterfly, to the ring, strawberry, bird, or chrysanthemum.
Check out maedeup variations on Etsy, or some knot directions.
That’s so cool! Have you been making these?