The First Modern Bathtub Was an Enamel-Coated 'Dwaeji Yeomultong' (Pig Trough)

Kohler, World's First Cast Iron Bathtub Production... Also Develops Enamel Powder Coating Technology

The first cast iron bathtub made by Kohler.
[Photo by Kohler]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Jong-hwa] Modern bathrooms are being reborn not just as spaces for washing but as healing spots for private relaxation. Bathtubs, suitable for relieving fatigue accumulated during work, are being released in new forms with added modern technologies such as music playback, water temperature control, and body weight measurement.

How did the history of modern bathtubs, where we enjoy various technologies for relaxation, begin? Since when have people been bathing in bathtubs? Surprisingly, the answer is the 'dwaeji yeomultong' (pig feeding trough).

The bathtub, which can be considered the beginning of bathing culture, was first developed in ancient Rome. However, due to its high cost, it was exclusively owned by the upper class. The wooden tubs seen in Korean historical dramas were also a minority culture used only in temples, noble houses, or royal palaces, while commoners washed in streams or by pouring water over themselves.

Globally, the bathing culture in homes began relatively recently. The modern household bathtub that we commonly think of today was developed by KOHLER, a specialized kitchen and bath brand.

John Michael Kohler, the founder of KOHLER, a global leader in bathroom and kitchen products, immigrated from Austria to the United States in 1854. At the age of 29, he purchased a cast iron foundry in Sheboygan, USA, for $5,000. The company named "Kohler and Silberzahn," after John Michael Kohler and his partner Charles Silberzahn, produced plows and other agricultural equipment. In 1883, they produced the world's first cast iron bathtub by attaching decorative feet to a pig feeding trough and also developed the first enamel coating technology by applying enamel powder to the cast iron surface.

At that time in the United States, it was common to bathe by pouring water collected in a sink or in wooden tubs made of oak. However, wood, by its nature, could develop mold if left in moisture and was difficult to withstand sudden temperature changes, requiring meticulous maintenance to be used as a bathtub.

In response, Kohler took a square tin pig feeding trough produced by a subsidiary, sprayed it with enamel powder they developed, and attached four legs to support it. This was the moment the modern bathtub, called the "malkuyu mokyoktong" (manger bath tub), was born.

The cast iron bathtub developed by Kohler was heavy and simply designed, but it allowed easy bathing at home and complemented all the disadvantages of wooden tubs, quickly spreading by word of mouth. There is even a fable-like story that the first bathtub was sold for one cow and 14 chickens.

Kohler CLEO.
Photo by Kohler

In 1911, they introduced the 'built-in' bathtub commonly seen today. This marked the beginning of the modern bathroom where the bathtub is fixed in the bathroom. The first ceramic toilet and sink were also Kohler's creations.

Since starting the bathroom product business with enamel cast iron bathtubs, Kohler has grown into a global company with about 30,000 employees working in over 50 factories worldwide.

Kohler's bathtubs demonstrate a perfect harmony of technology and art. From typical cast iron bathtubs made with unique casting technology to bathtubs combining durable materials like high-gloss acrylic with exquisite craftsmanship and color, they offer products suitable for any bathroom environment.

Without using lead, 93% of the materials are recyclable, and with sufficient enamel coating, the bathtubs can be used cleanly for a long time without peeling. Kohler, found in the world's top luxury hotels, is still recognized for its excellence through long-standing expertise, outstanding technology, and design even after 148 years.

Park Sun-young, Marketing Director of Kohler Korea, said, "Kohler has led the bathroom and kitchen culture we commonly experience today by developing the first household bathtub and built-in bathtubs," adding, "We will continue to devote ourselves to product development and launch so that customers can enjoy the most advanced quality, design, and performance with Kohler's excellent design and creative spirit."