Red and Blue Painting Techniques of the DPRK

Historical relics are well preserved in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, and the original paintings in them still retain their colours.

Red and blue painting dates back to the period of Koguryo (277 BC-AD 668). The mural paintings from the period, which have been unearthed so far, are in relatively good state of preservation, providing a glimpse into the colourful painting in the period.

The traditional techniques and methods of painting are still applied to decorating and protecting the wood materials of the country’s architectural relics. 

The techniques of making the painting materials were registered on the list of national intangible cultural heritage of the DPRK in November 2023.