An unique art technique was added to South Korea's list of intangible cultural assets last week.
For the sole craft master of the technique, it means more than a decade of hard work has finally paid off.
Won Jung-hwan reports.

The Cultural Heritage Administration has designated the art technique Nakwhajang as Intangible Cultural Heritage number 136.
The technique involves creating drawings or patterns using searing-hot iron on materials such as paper, wood and leather.
This form of art originated in Jeollabuk-do Province at around the start of the 19th century,… and it has finally gained public recognition through the sole craft master in the country,… Kim Young-jo.

Kim, who has been practicing the skill since 1972,… said he is proud that Nakwha, the name of the skill itself, has finally became a national cultural asset.
When asked about why it is so special,… Kim explained how his traditional iron art technique differs from the conventional modern technique which uses an electric iron.

"Our traditional technique is pure. Basically, we craft arts by using iron that has been heated in charcoal. Yes, it can be said that it is somewhat inconvenient as the heated iron can be only used for 30 seconds max,… but there is a difference in the details of depth when using the traditional technique."

Nakwhajang... requires skilled craftsmanship to use the iron tools to create light and dark shades.
And the veteran craft master says that as well as a lot of effort, it took a lot of pain to reach this level, with Kim truly suffering for his art.

"When I first started, I burned my hand a lot. Even these days, when I am so focused on crafting, I sometimes touch the hot iron without even knowing it."

By officially recognizing cultural heritage and the masters who keep these traditions alive, Korea can preserve its deep, rich culture and share it with the world.
Won Jung-hwan, Arirang News.