🎵 categories.instruments-misc

Geomungo · Yukhyeongeum — Traditional Korean six-string zither

The geomungo is a traditional Korean zither with six strings. It features a long wooden soundbox, producing deep and resonant tones. It is played using the fingers and a bamboo stick called suldae.

Ancient String Instrument · A Rare Asian Plucked Lute

The Bineno is an ancient stringed instrument once played in Korea and Central Asia, producing sound by plucking its strings. Made with wood, animal hide, and silk or plant fibers, it was mainly used in court music and ceremonial settings. Its unique timbre and structure make it a rare artifact in musical history.

Shapa · Traditional Stringed Instrument — Ancient Korean Zither

The shapa is a traditional Korean stringed instrument belonging to the zither family. It consists of a wooden body with multiple strings, played with the fingers or a plectrum. It played a significant role in court and ritual music.

Danjo · Single-string zither — Traditional Korean string instrument

The danjo is a traditional Korean string instrument with only one string. Its long, slender body and single string create a unique, clear sound. It has been used in both court and folk music.

Woodrans · Traditional String Instrument — A mountain wooden stringed instrument

The Woodrans is a traditional string instrument from Korea's northern mountainous regions. It features a long wooden body strung with two to four strings, played either by hand or with a bow. Its sound is warm and resonant, often used in folk music.

Gadu · Ancient Korean string instrument

The Gadu is an ancient Korean string instrument used during the Three Kingdoms and Goryeo periods. It featured a leather-covered body and multiple strings, and was played with fingers or a plectrum. The instrument was primarily used in court music and ceremonial contexts.

Didyumuduru · Traditional Wind Instrument — Goryeo-era Woodwind

The Didyumuduru is a wooden wind instrument used during Korea’s Goryeo period. It was primarily played in royal courts and ceremonies, noted for its distinctive tone and structure. Today, its existence is known only through historical texts and records.

Surnai · Traditional Double-Reed Wind Instrument — Used in folk music across Central Asia and Korea

The surnai is a double-reed wind instrument known for its sharp and powerful sound. It is commonly played during weddings and festive ceremonies as an accompaniment. In Korea, it is especially used in nongak (farmer's music) and traditional folk events.

Nansoole · Bamboo Flute — Vertical wind instrument of the Joseon Dynasty

The Nansoole is a traditional bamboo wind instrument used in Joseon court music. Played vertically, it produces a gentle and pure timbre well-suited for ceremonial and court performances. Its delicate sound is valued in Korean classical ensembles.

Galante · Classical String Instrument — European-Style Violin Introduced to Late Joseon Korea

The Galante is a string instrument of the violin family that was introduced to Korea during the late Joseon dynasty. With the influx of Western music, it was played at court and elite gatherings. Its clear and rich tone offered a new sound distinct from traditional Korean instruments.