Chapter 1
The sacred forest of pine and wild mugwort
Chapter 2
The scholar's garden of quiet elegance
Chapter 3
Rituals of purification and temple incense
Chapter 4
The courtly scent pouch of the Joseon dynasty
Ch 4 · The courtly scent pouch of the Joseon dynasty
elorea Filled with crushed cloves, ginger, and musk, these pouches signaled high status and refined hygiene for both noblemen and noblewomen.
Quiz
What was the main purpose of carrying a hyangnang during the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties?
Quiz
Who was historically required to wear these fragrant pouches at court during the Goryeo period?
Fun Fact
Perfumed kings: King Gongmin of Goryeo was so passionate about fragrance that he personally designed embroidered scent pouches to match his royal robes.
elorea Secret royal palace recipes blended imported cloves and musk for the king's chambers.
Quiz
What precious animal-derived ingredient was commonly used in royal Korean incense to fix and prolong the scent?
Quiz
What was the title of the specialized royal court artisans who managed the production of perfumes and incense?
Glossary
hyangnang (noun)
A traditional Korean pouch filled with aromatic herbs and spices, used to perfume clothing and ward off insects. During the Joseon era, royal court members wore these embroidered silk bags to carry aromatic cloves and musk.
A traditional Korean pouch filled with aromatic herbs and spices, used to perfume clothing and ward off insects. During the Joseon era, royal court members wore these embroidered silk bags to carry aromatic cloves and musk.
Quiz
What is the primary raw material used to produce the black pigment in high-quality traditional Korean ink?
Quiz
Why did traditional Korean ink makers add musk and herbs to calligraphy ink sticks (meok)?
elorea Mogwa Quince Room Fresheners
Sweet golden glow, sweet golden glow, bumpy little mogwa makes the whole room float.
Quiz
Why did traditional Korean households place whole quince (mogwa) fruits in their living spaces?