• Cross-Cultural Studies
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• v.35
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• pp.215-235
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• 2014

The purpose of this paper look at the basis of the cultural differences of Korean and Japan by comparing the craftsmanship. Korean craftsmanship and master craftsman making traditional handcrafts and artwork would die out at a critical moment. The craftsmanship and system could not be established because of discrimination in the traditional four classes of society( scholars, farmers, artisans and tradesmen), invasions of other countries and discontinuity of tradition from modernization. On the contrast, in Japan, it was possible to establish traditional handcrafts and artworks, technique and craftsmanship with apprentice system and various social privilege and treatment even in the same traditional four classes of society ( scholars, farmers, artisans and tradesmen). It was common to pass down the family business for a hundreds of years with self respect between Japanese master craftsmen and lots of people succeed the family business will now. Japanese craftsmanship is originated from 'worship to god' Medieval Japanese believed that the thing changes human mind, artistic talent, masterpieces and faith were connected to sacred power. Therefore, master craftsmen and their works were also made by the power of god. In this context, craftsmen were protected and treated in socially and nationally. It is that the social treatments and supports in national level and their own pride and continuous training of techniques and abilities as the main driving force to maintain the craftsmanship in Japan. Korea has the sale level of competitive tradition and technique in comparison any other countries. Japanese craftsmanship study will be a critical data in the protection and maintenance of Korean traditional and technique.