Oungum

Pyongyang, September 26 (KCNA) -- Oungum is one of the national string instruments of the DPRK.

The musical instrument, composed of a gourd-shaped soundboard, neck with frets and head, is played in solo, concert, ensemble, etc. It is made of paulownia wood.

Chairman Kim Jong Il initiated and guided the development of Oungum when he coached his fellow students of Kim Il Sung University in military training in Oundong in the period from August 20 to October 4, 1962.

He gave a detailed instruction on the materials, shape and preservation of traditional Korean tone colour of the musical instrument. Under his meticulous guidance, students succeeded in developing it.

After examining the instrument, he said that it would be good to call it Oungum as it was made in Oundong Valley where the military training was conducted.

Oungum, which was created under the guidance of the peerlessly great man, contributes to enriching the culture of the Korean people for its unique timbres produced by various techniques.

Oungum-making technology was registered as a part of the national intangible cultural heritage in 2024. -0-