Ewha Womans University established Ceramics Department in 1959 in order to develop and inherit the traditional ceramics culture. The foundation of the department reflected the intention of Dr. Helen Kim, First President of Ewha Womans University, that Korea’s own culture and arts must be preserved and further developed. Such a strong commitment drew focus on ceramics, which is Korea’s flagship craft and led to the launch of Ceramics Department mainly driven by Prof. Hwang Jong-Gu. With the establishment of the department, the Research Institute of Ceramics was founded as well to embark on the research, production and experiment of traditional ceramics in earnest. Following the launch of the institute, Prof. Hwang began the research and production of traditional ceramics. As Korea was still in the middle of restoring its economy to overcome its financial hardship, it was difficult to implement infrastructure for ceramics education which was a new attempt. However, Prof. Hwang had gradually set up facilities and mechanisms so that the institute could fully focus on producing celadon

     The Research Institute of Ceramics, which was founded under the university for the first time in Korea, has made multifaceted endeavors to nurture techniques and experts. First and foremost, it concentrated on securing raw materials needed for celadon production. It extracted the best quality primary clay across the country and requested quality inspections to 중앙요업시험소 before using it. Such efforts stemmed from Prof. Hwang’s desire to represent Goryeo celadon’s celadon green. In addition, he fostered experts to represent celadon. Celadon production became highly sophisticated by dividing processes into wheel throwing, decoration of pattern and mold making. A variety of celadon were represented thanks to a large number of experts, and the institute updated bunchung wares and white porcelains with contemporary aesthetics. The institute also developed a wide array of modern wares by using diverse quality of glaze. Besides, a kiln was installed within the campus for the first time in Korea. The first kiln was fired by wood, and then 도염식 gas kiln was built in 1964. Traditional wares and various daily products as well as celadon were born in this kiln.

    The success of the Research Institute of Ceramics led to a variety of production activities and growing demand. In particular, it made a contribution to promoting the greatness of celadon to foreigners and expanding the usage of traditional wares in a daily life. Ewha Womans University will continue to further promote Prof. Hwang’ commitment which stems from the goal of inheriting traditional ceramics in the modern times.