Korean knots

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Korean knots, also known as maedeup (매듭), is a traditional Korean handicraft which dates back to the Three Kingdom periods and have been deeply influenced by Chinese knots.^[1]

The Korean knotting techniques are believed to originate from China, but Korean knots evolved into its own rich culture as to design, color and incorporation of local characteristics.^[1]: 16 Korean knotting uses a unique braiding technique.^[2] Korean knotting is derived from the ancient practice of using knots for practical purposes; e.g. in fishing nets, agricultural tools, stone knives and axes.^[2][3]

Traditionally, the knots were used primarily to hold hunting tools around the waist and their usage was initially limited to royal families, spreading later to common people.^{[citation needed]} Today, modern Korean artists are using the traditional knots in their works, such as accessories, jewelry and home interior decorations.^[2]