Ancient String Instruments before Gayageum

Gayageum is a string instrument that was made around the 6th Century. Before the gayageum, ancient kingdoms of Korea had invented many types of instruments.

According to historical texts from China, Gaya had a string instrument that was similar to that of the Chinese. Records also state that the Gaya people performed their own music, suggesting that Gaya had a long musical history and tradition.

The ancient string instruments of Korea are only found in parts from various regions, making it difficult for us to clearly see their complete appearance. But we can assume how these instruments looked based on artifacts that describe people playing them. Take a look at the exhibited photo. People performing music are also expressed in ancient tomb murals and gilt-bronze incense burner.

In addition, clay figurines from Silla depict people playing instruments. They have the gayageum on their laps and play music by picking on the strings.

Why is the gayageum seen in neighboring countries when it was created in Gaya? We’ll see the reason in the next story.