The recent surge in popularity of Netflix's global TV show 'Heavy Trauma Center,' which topped the non-English TV show category, has brought renewed attention to Goryeo celadon featured in the drama. A scene where a surgical department head serves tea in Goryeo celadon teacups, inherited from his mentor, to charm a junior doctor, has deeply imprinted the beauty of Korean traditional culture on global viewers.
'Heavy Trauma Center' has dominated the top spot in 17 countries, including Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Chile, and Peru, and has entered the top 10 in 63 countries, including the United States, creating a syndrome-like sensation. The drama's inspiration from Professor Lee Guk-jong has further fueled its popularity.
In the drama, Goryeo celadon transcends its role as a mere prop, symbolizing the essence of Korean culture. Representing the splendid art of the Goryeo Dynasty, Goryeo celadon boasts a 1,000-year history and is rightly considered the origin of K-culture. Notably, 80% of celadon designated as national treasures and treasures were produced in Gangjin, making it the heart of Goryeo celadon culture.
Crafted from Gangjin's soil, water, fire, and the hands of artisans, Goryeo celadon is characterized by its clear, transparent glaze and inlaid techniques. The areas of Daegu-myeon and Chillyang-myeon in Gangjin-gun were production sites of Goryeo celadon from the 9th to 14th centuries, offering a comprehensive view of the evolution of Korean celadon. Recognized for its historical value, it was designated as Historic Site No. 68 in 1963.
The Gangjin Celadon Festival, which inherits the history and culture of Goryeo celadon, marks its 53rd anniversary this year and will be held from February 22nd to March 3rd at the Celadon Village site in Daegu-myeon, Gangjin-gun. The festival will feature various hands-on programs, including pottery wheel shaping, celadon fragment mosaic, celadon coiling, celadon rubbing, clay trampling, and celadon excavation.
This year, the 'Gangjin Anyone Half-Price Travel' program has been expanded, offering up to 100,000 won in benefits per person, up to four times. This allows tourists to enjoy Gangjin's various attractions at discounted prices and purchase celadon and local specialties at half price at the festival.
A representative from the Gangjin-gun Festival Promotion Committee stated, "Visiting the Goryeo Celadon Museum, Digital Museum, Celadon Festival site, and Celadon Sales Center with the 'Gangjin Anyone Half-Price Travel' will create an unforgettable experience."
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