For centuries, brasswork has been an essential part of Korean culture, shaping daily life, ritual practices, and even the nation’s economic system.
During the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), brass objects ranging from tableware and household vessels to musical instruments, ritual items, and currency were valued for their durability, natural antimicrobial qualities, warmth, and dignified golden hue. Brass was present in everyday meals, seasonal rituals, and spiritual ceremonies alike.
The traditional sand-casting techniques used nearly 1000 years ago is still being used to this day, in which molten brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, was poured into carefully prepared molds made from fine sand and clay, then cooled, separated, and finished by hand. This method allowed for consistency and scale while remaining deeply dependent on the skill and judgment of artisans.
Over time, industrialization and mass production dramatically reduced the demand for handcrafted brasswork. What was once a central, everyday craft is now practiced by only a small number of workshops and master artisans.
Today, Korean brasswork stands at a critical point. It is no longer driven by necessity, but sustained by cultural memory, craftsmanship, and a renewed appreciation for material honesty and human-made objects.
At Greego, we believe true craftsmanship should never fade quietly into the past.
This legacy lives on in the hands of a small number of master artisans working across Korea.
Many began by watching their fathers and uncles at work. For them, the craft was inherited. Their studios have been active for decades, some over 100 years, and their work remains entirely handmade.
In today’s global, digital-first design world, much of this work remains unseen. Not because it lacks value, but because these workshops were never oriented toward visibility, only toward the act of making.
Greego brings this tradition into the present by introducing artisan’s brasswork to architects, designers, and furniture brands who value materials with substance and meaning. We curate rare, handcrafted brass hardware and manage the logistics that make it accessible to modern projects worldwide.