Korean pottery began with Neolithic earthenware around 5000 BC, first decorated with raised bands and later with comb-pattern designs. By 1000 BC, simpler undecorated pottery became common. Around the start of the Common Era, potter’s wheels and kiln-firing technology arrived from China, leading to the production of high-fired stoneware during the Three Kingdoms period (300–668 AD) and the emergence of green-glazed wares.
During the Goryeo dynasty (918–1392), Korea produced its first celadon and white porcelain. Inspired by Chinese ceramics, Goryeo celadon developed a distinctive blue-green glaze known as bisaek and an innovative inlay technique. Major production centers were Kangjin and Buan. By the 14th century, political instability shifted production toward more practical stoneware.
In the Joseon dynasty (1392–1910), buncheong ware emerged, featuring bold white-slip decorations on stoneware. Unlike the refined Goryeo celadon, buncheong was expressive and robust, with some pieces becoming highly valued in Japan. Meanwhile, white porcelain became the dominant ceramic style, reflecting Confucian ideals of simplicity and purity. Blue-and-white porcelain appeared in the 15th century, followed by iron-brown and copper-red decorated wares. By the 18th century, ceramic production flourished, and in the 19th century, rising middle-class demand encouraged designs featuring auspicious symbols, folk motifs, and wishes for prosperity and longevity.
