Evolution of the Hanji-making Technology, from Ancient Times to the Present

This study has delved into the evolution of Hanji-manufacturing molds and techniques from ancient times to the present, aiming to uncover the current state of traditional Hanji-making techniques. In the absence of records on Hanji-making, various ancient documents, rare books, and documents during the Japanese occupation period, among other artifacts and relics, were analyzed in this study. It was discovered that a sudden significant transformation occurred in the Hanji field during the Japanese occupation period. Soda ash and caustic soda were commonly used for the pretreatment of White bark. Furthermore, a chemical bleaching powder was introduced for the pretreated White bark. Additionally, manual beating of the bark was replaced by mechanical beating methods. While these changes brought convenience to papermakers, they also resulted in a deterioration of Hanji quality. Furthermore, it was revealed that the term "Hanji" has been in use since at least 1908. Furthermore, this study clarified that Heulimtteugi is not the only traditional Hanji-making method in Korea. Instead, there existed Korea's own traditional Gadoomtteugi method, at least up to the 1930s, before the Japanese-style Gadoomtteugi became common in Korea. Additionally, for the first time, this study raises the possibility of the adoption of mold-hanging techniques into Korea's Heulimtteugi method from foreign sources.