Cultural Heritage Administration Applies for UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Listing of 'Traditional Hanji'

Decision on Listing Status in December 2026

The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on the 1st that it has submitted an application to the UNESCO headquarters for the inscription of 'Traditional knowledge and skills associated with the production of Hanji and related cultural practices in the Republic of Korea' on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The appearance of hanji drying.
[Photo by Cultural Heritage Administration]

'Traditional knowledge and skills associated with the production of Hanji and related cultural practices' will undergo review by the UNESCO Secretariat and evaluation by the assessment body, with the final decision on inscription to be made at the 21st Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage to be held in December 2026.

Hanji is a traditional Korean paper made from the fibers of the bark of the paper mulberry tree, crafted through the delicate hand skills of artisans. It has been passed down through generations over a long period within Korean life. Hanji is used not only for documentation but also as an example of sustainable intangible heritage, expanding its applications across various fields including eco-friendly building materials, various daily goods, and artistic activities.

In particular, the production process, from harvesting the paper mulberry bark to manufacturing, involves the skills and knowledge of artisans combined with cooperative labor among village residents, well reflecting Korea’s community culture.

Currently, communities related to Hanji production and utilization consist of bearers and related organizations. Bearers include National Intangible Cultural Heritage Hanji masters Hong Chunsu, Kim Samsik, Shin Hyunse, An Chiyong, and provincial designated intangible heritage holders Kim Ilsu, Lee Sangok, Jang Seongwoo, and Jang Eungryeol. Organizations involved in the preservation and utilization of Hanji include the Hanji Saligi Foundation.

The Cultural Heritage Administration stated, “We will continue to cooperate with Hanji artisans and related organizations to do our utmost to ensure that ‘Traditional knowledge and skills associated with the production of Hanji and related cultural practices’ are inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.