Kim Young-i and Kim Young-hee Named Holders of National Intangible Cultural Heritage 'Embroidery Masters'

Artisans Who Embroider Patterns on Fabric with Multicolored Threads

The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on the 24th that it recognizes Mr. Kim Young-i and Ms. Kim Young-hee as holders of the national intangible heritage 'Jasujang (刺繡匠)'. Opinions from various sectors will be collected for one month, and the decision on recognition will be made after review by the Intangible Heritage Committee.

Kim Young-i (left) and Kim Young-hee, who have been announced as recognized holders of the national intangible cultural heritage 'Embroidery Master'

Jasujang refers to artisans who embroider patterns on fabric using needles threaded with multicolored threads. Techniques required include Jarisoo, which weaves densely like the surface of a mat; Jaryeonsoo, which arranges needle stitches in alternating patterns with rhythm; and Pyeongsoo, which fills the surface horizontally, vertically, and diagonally.

Mr. Kim Young-i learned the Jasujang technique from the late holder Han Sang-su in 1970. Since 2008, he has been active as a transmission educator, dedicating himself to preservation and transmission. Ms. Kim Young-hee learned the technique from holder Choi Yoo-hyun in 1966 and has honed her skills for 59 years. She obtained her transmission educator qualification in 2015 and has been devoted to teaching the craft.

The Cultural Heritage Administration confirmed their skills last year through a public contest, document review, and on-site investigation. An official stated, "We expect this to bring vitality to the transmission field." Currently, the only holder of Jasujang is Ms. Choi Yoo-hyun.