Kim Young-hee, who has processed jade for 53 years, to become a 'Jade Artisan' holder

Excellent Skills in Chisel Work, Carving, and Grooving

The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on the 22nd that it will recognize Ms. Kim Young-hee as a holder of the national intangible cultural heritage 'Okjang (玉匠)'. Opinions from various sectors will be collected for one month, and the decision on recognition will be made after a review by the Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee.

Okjang refers to the skill of crafting various objects or ornaments from jade, or an artisan who possesses such skills. Jade, along with gold and silver, is considered a representative gemstone in East Asian cultures. It was often used as an ornament indicating social status. Its white and soft nature has been associated with meanings such as perseverance, gentleness, subtlety, and patience.

The production process is broadly divided into six stages: quarrying, designing, cutting, shaping, detailed carving (drilling holes, grooving), and polishing. Various tools are used according to each process, including a metal saw for cutting, a bow drill called "hwalbibi" for drilling holes, and a grinding machine called "galiteul" (a machine that processes wood into a round shape) for polishing.

Ms. Kim is an artisan recognized as a holder of the provincial intangible cultural heritage 'Okjang'. She began her apprenticeship in 1970 under Master Kim Jae-hwan and inherited the skills. She has honed jade processing techniques for approximately 53 years.

The Cultural Heritage Administration stated, "After last year's public call, we conducted document reviews and on-site investigations to verify the core skills of Okjang, such as openwork carving, engraving, and grooving," and added, "We have confirmed sufficient qualifications to recognize her as an Okjang holder."