Brushstrokes of heritage: A mother-daughter duo redefine tradition in Bukchon

Artists Lee Eun-young, left, and Baek Kyung-ja pose for a photo at Bukchon Hanok Office in Jongno-gu, Seoul, Dec. 30, 2025. AJP Han Jun-gu
SEOUL, January 05 (AJP) - Tucked away in the winding alleys of Gahoe-dong, the Bukchon Hanok Office serves as a serene sanctuary from the city's modern pulse.

In late 2025, this traditional space — operated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government — offered more than just a glimpse of historic architecture; it became the stage for a deeply personal convergence of art and lineage.

The exhibition, titled "Yeon: A Mother-Daughter Story Connected by Brush," brought together calligrapher Baek Kyung-ja (known by her art name, Yesol) and her daughter, dancheong (traditional decorative coloring) artist Lee Eun-young.

The show’s origin is as heartwarming as the art itself. When Lee suggested her mother hold a solo exhibition, Baek initially declined. The impasse was broken by Lee’s simple, spirited invitation: "Mom, then let's do it together!"

Stepping through the sarangchae (guest quarters) and main house, visitors were greeted by a dialogue between generations. Baek, a veteran artist with over 40 years of experience in Korean calligraphy and folk painting, displayed works that radiated the profound weight and refinement of a life dedicated to the brush.
 Artworks are displayed at Bukchon Hanok Office/ AJP Han Jun-gu Artworks are displayed at Bukchon Hanok Office/ AJP Han Jun-gu
Beside her, Lee — who transitioned from fashion design to training under a National Intangible Cultural Heritage master — presented dancheong pieces that felt strikingly modern in their composition and interpretation.

As natural light filtered through the hanji (traditional paper) windows, it illuminated the vibrant pigments and deep ink tones of the artworks. Walking through the wooden-floored rooms, the concept of "yeon" — the Korean word for a karmic connection or bond — felt palpable.

For those wandering the historic slopes of Bukchon, this modest yet soulful exhibition offered a rare moment where traditional and contemporary artistry harmoniously intertwined, proving that the strongest threads of heritage are often those shared between a mother and her daughter.
 Artworks are displayed at Bukchon Hanok Office/ AJP Han Jun-gu Artworks are displayed at Bukchon Hanok Office/ AJP Han Jun-gu A visitor photographs exhibits at Bukchon Hanok Office. AJP Han Jun-gu The entrance of Bukchon Hanok Office/ AJP Han Jun-gu
Han Jun-gu 사진기자 jungu141298@ajupress.com