Daemokjang

Daemokjang

The skill of Daemokjang can only be acquired through decades of educations and field experience. There were times when Daemokjang were treated with prestige, even they were given government positions also. According to the historians, this particular architectural method and term originated in Korea during the Joseon Dynasty. But towards the end of the dynasty, the term abolished in the 18th century. Instead, their previous surnames were changed to ‘Fiansu’ and other artisans became known as  ‘Dofiansu’. Their job was to instruct the construction of government buildings and temples.[2]

One Daemokjang’s works in home constructions starts with shaving bark off the wood which will be used in construction later. Then he draws the lines on the timbers and other elements to be cut and curved. There are multiple types of pillar which are then carefully fitted on the top of the foundation stones. Architrave beams go atop the pillars. All these are done with a skillful  plan for the curved roof. The whole process of making this traditional construction requires both technical skill to design the building and  aesthetic sense to select the constructions materials. So Daemokjang can easily create the so-called 'JOINTS THAT WITHSTAND A MILLENNIUM'.[3][4]

According to one of the present day skill holder, Choi Gi-Yeong, winter was the best time for Daemokjang to make Hanok. The builders’ job was to finish all the work on the floor before the ice began to freeze, cutting and drying the wood with it. Before the rains the roof tiles were laid again, the best time to plaster is august, before the start Chuseok. During this time the dew would stick to the wall every morning and dry out throughout the day reducing the chances of cracks in the wall compared to other times.[5]

The UNESCO World Heritage List included ‘CHANGDEOKGUNG PALACE AND BULGUKSA TEMPLE’, as the traditional Korean architecture which had been constructed by Daemokjang. Daemokjang has been safeguarded as a national cultural heritage since its designation of 74th  important intangible Cultural Properties of Korea in 1982.[6]

There are still few skill holders remaining who reside and work all across Korea. Skill holder Sin-Eung-Su works in Gangneung –si, Gangwon –do. Skill holder Jeon Heung-Su lives and works in Deoksan-myeon, Yesan-gun, Chumgcheongnam-do. One such skill holder Choi-Gi-Yeong works in Namyangju-si, Gyeonggi-do.

Among the three prominent architects alive in Korea, Choi-Gi-Yeong is one of them. His contribution to the project of restoring historical Buddhist monasteries is undeniable. For his special work the South Korean Government has awarded him the title of Intangible Cultural Heritage.[7]

Geungnakjeon Hall at Bongjeongsa Temple in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do province[8] which was built in 1200th century and is one of the national preserved architecture. Choi demolished the wooden building and rebuilt it.

Hanok etc. wooden architectures are naturally built. All the elements come from nature. It is created by artists who adhere to principles and fundamentals. Korean pine, clay, stones, tiles and window paper are all in nature. Pine wood tends to breathe. Pine resin flows into the Hanok. The house breathes just as it breathes naturally. The whole process was done scientifically. That is why their extraordinary constructions are still standing in their glory today.[9]