Late Joseon Dynasty Armor and Helmet to Be Designated as National Folk Cultural Heritage

Housed at Onyang Folk Museum
A Complete Set Including the Storage Box

Armor among 'Armor (Gap) and Armor Box (Gapham)' in the collection of Onyang Folk Museum

Materials of significant value have been recognized in the study of armor craftsmanship.

The National Heritage Administration announced on the 31st that it plans to designate the 'Armor and Armor Box' housed at the Onyang Folk Museum as a National Folk Cultural Heritage. Over the next month, opinions will be collected from various sectors, and the final decision will be made after deliberation by the Cultural Heritage Committee.

This set consists of late Joseon Dynasty armor and helmet that have been preserved in a form very close to the original. The storage box and accessory case also remain intact.

The items are estimated to have been made in the late 19th century. It is highly likely that they were produced for royal ceremonial or display purposes. It is said that Kim Wondae, the founder of the Onyang Folk Museum, purchased them from an acquaintance in 1975 while preparing to open the museum.

The armor is a late Joseon Dynasty overcoat style, made with red and blue fabric. The sides are open, allowing for greater mobility. The outer surface is decorated with patterns of dragons, tigers, and wish-fulfilling jewels. Notably, the dragon-shaped ornament attached to the shoulder is designed so that the four-part segmented body and the dragon's tongue move together.

Helmet among 'Armors and Armor Boxes' in the Collection of Onyang Folk Museum

The helmet consists of a cap, a crown ornament, and a neck guard. Patterns are engraved on the metal base, and dragon and phoenix decorations are attached. Additional features such as a forehead guard and a metal visor enhance its protective function. A jade plate is set in the center to add aesthetic value.

The storage box was made using traditional wood lacquer techniques. The interior is divided into upper and lower sections so that the helmet and armor can be stored separately.

The National Heritage Administration stated, "The components are complete and in excellent condition, allowing the artistry and structure of late Joseon Dynasty armor craftsmanship to be fully appreciated."

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