In ancient Korea, straw was one of the most valuable materials people had. It may look simple, but for centuries, straw played a big role in daily life.

Korea was a farming society back in the day, so rice and barley were grown everywhere. People were usually left with large amounts of straw after harvesting, so they found smart ways to use it instead of discarding it.

The straw had to be processed before use. Farmers dried the leftover stalks under the sun, tied them in bundles, and sometimes soaked and twisted them to make the fibers stronger. This process helped the straw become flexible, durable, and easy to shape.

One of the most important uses was in roofing. Traditional Korean houses, especially in villages, used straw thatching for their rooftops, which kept homes cool in summer and warm in winter because of the natural insulation abilities. The thick layers also protected homes from rain and wind. Even today, some hanok villages maintain these straw roofs as a way to preserve history.

Straw was also used to make shoes, called 짚신 (jipsin). These shoes were light and inexpensive. Back then, farmers and travelers wore them because they could be made quickly and replaced easily. Another common item was the straw mat, which people used for sitting, sleeping, and even drying crops.

Ancient Koreans also wove baskets and made storage containers, sandals, hats, and ropes using straw. These items were essential for farming families. For example, straw rope was used to tie animals, carry heavy loads, and mark boundaries during festivals and rituals. Even livestock benefited from the straw because it was used as bedding for cows and horses.

The importance of straw went beyond daily use and was also connected to Korean culture. During New Year celebrations, people hung small straw decorations at their doors to ward off bad spirits. Straw ropes were used in village rituals that prayed for good harvests. In a way, straw symbolized life, protection, and community.

In modern Korea, straw is no longer a daily necessity, but it has evolved into a cultural and artistic tool. Today, it is used mainly in traditional crafts, hanok preservation, and eco-friendly art projects. Some designers even use straw to create bags, lamps, and home décor that blend old traditions with modern style.

Straw may look simple, but it has been in the lives of Korean citizens for generations. It protected homes, supported farming, inspired culture, and continues to remind people of Korea’s deep connection to the land.