Sericulture is the cultivation of silkworms and subsequent production of silk which has been a Chinese art for over 5000 years, so its spread to Korea around 200BC is a relatively recent occurrence! Of course, Korea has had plenty of time to refine its own silk industry, which is one of the world’s largest. Korea was positioned early in the 4000 mile long Silk Road which ran from China to the Mediterranean and eventually Korea learnt the closely guarded secrets of its neighbour – secrets that China would in those days kill to protect! Now we know it is the handiwork of Bombyx mori, the larva of the silk moth.
In modern times, Korea sits alongside countries like Japan and India as secondary producers of silk behind the Chinese powerhouse, but it still plays a key role in Korean culture. Hanbok, the traditional Korean dress, is often wholly or partially made from silk, dyed into striking colours. As well as this, steamed or boiled silkworm pupae are a common Korean snack! Served by street vendors and restaurants alike, this delicacy is known as beondegi.
Silk is one of the world’s greatest natural fibres – as strong as steel and used for everything from pyjamas to parachutes to prosthetic arteries. Of course, it’s best known for clothing and decoration.
At Wooree, we love this incredible material and, as such, offer our premium teas gift-wrapped in the finest Korean silk. Just imagine the beauty of silk combined with the wonderful taste of green tea – we can’t think of a better gift!