Hanji, the traditional handmade paper of Korea, is more than just a surface for writing or art. It is a material steeped in history, tied to the rhythms of the natural world, and cherished for its beauty, resilience, and versatility. Crafted from the inner bark of mulberry trees, Hanji has been an essential part of Korean culture for over a millennium, used in everything from Buddhist sutras to clothing, household objects, and contemporary design. Today, Hanji continues to bridge tradition and innovation, finding new relevance in conservation, fine art, and interior design.
A Brief History
Papermaking first entered Korea from China around the 4th century, but by the time of the Three Kingdoms period (57 BCE–668 CE), Korean artisans had developed distinctive methods and materials that set Hanji apart. The mulberry tree, abundant and hardy, provided long, durable fibers that gave the paper an extraordinary strength unmatched by many other handmade papers.
By the Goryeo dynasty (918–1392), Hanji was prized for printing Buddhist texts and court records. During the Joseon dynasty (1392–1897), it became integral to daily life—used not only for books and documents, but also for window coverings, fans, shoes, and ceremonial objects. The reputation of Hanji traveled widely, with Korea sometimes referred to as the “nation of paper.” Hanji’s endurance and versatility gave it a central role in Korean identity, and even today it remains a symbol of craftsmanship and cultural pride.
The Making of Hanji
The creation of Hanji is an intricate process that weaves together nature, time, and skilled labor. Mulberry trees are harvested during the cold months, when the bark fibers are at their strongest. After steaming, artisans carefully peel away the outer layers, keeping only the inner bark, which is then boiled in an alkaline solution to soften and purify it.
The softened fibers are painstakingly washed, then pounded to separate and lengthen them. A mucilaginous substance extracted from the roots of the hibiscus plant (known as dakpul) is added, ensuring the fibers remain evenly suspended in water during sheet formation. This mixture is then scooped onto a bamboo screen, known as the bal, and shaped using the heullim method—a rhythmic, rocking motion that allows fibers to settle in multiple directions.
This technique gives Hanji its signature strength and breathability, with a supple yet crisp texture. Unlike many Western handmade papers, which are pulled in a single direction, the multi-directional fibers of Hanji interlock to create sheets that are strong, tear-resistant, and able to last for centuries without significant degradation. Properly stored, Hanji is said to endure for a thousand years.
Hanji in Book and Decorative Arts
From the beginning, Hanji’s strength and refined surface made it an ideal medium for writing and printing. Monks and scholars valued its ability to hold ink without smudging or bleeding, while artists prized its subtle texture for calligraphy, painting, and woodblock printing. Because it was lightweight yet durable, Hanji was also used in the production of Buddhist sutras, official records, and classical literature.
But Hanji’s role extended far beyond the page. Its translucency made it a natural material for lanterns, lamps, and windows, where it softened and diffused light. Craftsmen fashioned Hanji into fans, kites, ceremonial garments, and even armor—its tensile strength and flexibility proving remarkable in a variety of contexts.
In contemporary book and paper arts, Hanji is valued for its stability in conservation treatments, its elegance in fine press work, and its versatility in creative projects. Artists around the world use Hanji for printmaking, collage, sculpture, and mixed media, drawn to its ability to combine delicacy with durability.
Cultural Value and Modern Presence
Hanji is more than a material; it is a cultural heritage. Recognized by the Korean government as an Important Intangible Cultural Property, the craft of papermaking has been passed down through generations of artisans, many of whom continue to practice in traditional papermaking villages.
Today, efforts to preserve and promote Hanji are supported by institutions such as the Hanji House in Seoul, which serves as both an educational center and a hub for contemporary design innovation. These initiatives celebrate Hanji not only as a traditional craft, but also as a living art form with modern relevance.
Internationally, Hanji has captured the attention of conservators, bookbinders, and artists who appreciate its unique properties. In conservation, Hanji is prized for its long fibers, strength, and neutral character, making it suitable for mending, backing, and reinforcing delicate works. In design, its translucency and warmth lend themselves beautifully to interior applications, from lampshades and room dividers to wallpaper and architectural accents.
Discover Hanji at TALAS
At TALAS, we are proud to connect our community with this extraordinary paper, offering a curated selection of Hanji for bookbinding, conservation, and creative projects. Each sheet carries with it the legacy of centuries of craftsmanship, while opening possibilities for new expression and use.
Whether you’re looking to repair a fragile manuscript, experiment with printmaking, or bring the soft glow of handmade paper into your designs, Hanji offers a material that is as versatile as it is beautiful. Explore our Hanji collection, and experience for yourself why this paper has been treasured in Korea for over a thousand years—and why it continues to inspire makers around the world today.
