Gakgung is a representative traditional bow in Korea. Since it is water buffalo horn-based, it is called Gakgung, using the Chinese character called Gak 角, meaning horn. In addition, the bow is made of various materials such as bamboo, mulberry, oak, cow tendon, and the bark of cherry trees. It has great elasticity because each material pushes and pulls each other. When you release the strings that hold both ends, the bow bends back and curls.
The process of making Gakgung is a complicated and delicate process; it does require a lot of effort so that it can perform well. It can take a year to prepare and process the materials. When the final stage of making of the Gakgung is reached, a craftsman finishes it with Dojigae, an eyebrow-shaped wooden frame that holds a bow in shape. You can hang the strings when you recline the curled bow and tie them with Dojigae. Not only do you need Dojigae for new bows, but also for correcting old and distorted ones. Dojigae is important because it helps the Gakgung keep its correct shape and perform the way it’s supposed to.
Don’t you think each of us has someone like Dojigae in our life? Someone who help shapes us to achieve our goals in life?