Gungbo is an abbreviation for royal Bojagi, a traditional cloth used to wrap or cover items in the palace. During the Joseon Dynasty of Korea, when the royal family packed valuable items, they wrapped them with Bojagi, placed them in a box, and wrapped the box again with Bojagi. This practice developed a culture of carefully wrapping each valuable item in a proper manner, resulting in the production and use of a large number of Bojagi.
Among the royal records, there was even a separate list of Bojagi made and used by the royal family, which recorded the number of Bojagi by material, color, size, and usage. Among the various types of Bojagi, particularly Inmunbo, which is decorated with various patterns painted on the surface, the surviving examples today feature a pair of facing phoenixes drawn in the center. The phoenix was regarded as an imaginary bird symbolizing dignity, peace, and prosperity.
In addition to the phoenix, the patterns harmoniously drawn with colorful paints mostly consisted of beautiful flowers, desirable fruits, and letters conveying auspicious meanings such as wealth, longevity, peace, and prosperity for future generations. The Gungbo design has inspired many designers who incorporate traditional cultural elements as motifs in modern times. Particularly, the trendy reinterpretation of the Gungbo pattern worn by the K-pop sensation Blackpink in the music video for "How You Like That" gained worldwide attention.
To enhance the lively colors of the Gungbo design, this umbrella uses a self-made, harmonious golden rib instead of the common black rib found in the market. Experience the perfect fusion of artistry and functionality as you carry this outstanding accessory for rainy days and sunny strolls wherever you go. It will transport you to a world of timeless beauty and artistic excellence represented by Gungbo's legacy.
Specifications
- Materials
- Canopy: Dewspo (made of sturdy polyester known for its durability and waterproof function)
- Pole & Ribs: Fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP)
- Wooden handle
- 99.2% of the UV blocking rate
- Automatic open and close button
- Dimensions:
- 6 cm wide and 29.5 cm long when folded
- 97 cm wide and 60 cm long when fully extended
- Weight: 260 g
- Handmade by a local manufacturer with a rich heritage of craftsmanship passed down through generations in Korea
The package includes an umbrella and a coordinating carrying sleeve, both presented in an elegant gift box designed in the traditional Korean Bojagi form. The whole package adds a touch of cultural significance to the gift.
