Korean crafts are rich with symbolism: almost every motif on a lacquer box, folding fan or wedding duck carries a traditional wish for the person who receives it. This guide explains the most common Korean symbols and motifs and their meanings, so you can choose a piece that says exactly what you intend.
Longevity & nobility
Crane (학) — a bird of the immortals, signifying long life and grace. Pine (소나무) — evergreen through winter, standing for integrity and resilience. The two together, the pine-and-crane pairing, is one of Korea's best-loved longevity emblems and appears across our folding screens and plates & trays.
Sipjangsaeng — the ten symbols of longevity
Sun, mountain, water, rock, cloud, pine, the bullocho fungus, turtle, deer and crane—gathered into one auspicious composition. Read the full story in Sipjangsaeng: The Ten Symbols of Longevity.
Wealth, love & the seasons
Peony (모란) — the king of flowers, a wish for wealth and honour. Lotus (연꽃) — purity and new beginnings. Plum blossom (매화) — perseverance, blooming while snow still lingers. Chrysanthemum (국화) — endurance and a serene old age. Butterfly (나비) — joy and marital harmony.
Power & protection
Dragon (용) — guardian of water and rain, a symbol of authority. Tiger (호랑이) — a fearless folk guardian that drives away misfortune, seen in our decorative home accents.
Love & marriage
Mandarin ducks (원앙) and the wedding goose (기러기) mate for life, making them Korea's classic emblems of conjugal devotion—the heart of the wooden wedding duck tradition. Learn more in The Meaning of Korean Wedding Ducks.
Once you know the symbolism, gift-giving becomes effortless. Browse by meaning across our lacquerware, fans and decor.
