Goryeo Celadon

Timeline

1. 900–1000Kaesong · North Hwanghae ProvinceAfter the founding of Goryeo, celadon-firing techniques were imported from China's Five Dynasties and Song periods; kilns were set up around Kaesong and along the southern coast. Early products imitated Yue ware and northern celadon forms, gradually developing local clay and glaze recipes.
2. 1100–1200Kiln clusters in South Jeolla Province · South Jeolla ProvinceIn the 12th century Goryeo celadon glazes tended toward a translucent jade green; the inlay technique incised and filled white or black clay into vessel surfaces to render floral, cloud, and crane motifs. Gangjin kilns reached peak output and quality, becoming prized items for court gifts and foreign trade.
3. 1321–1330Kaesong and Gyeongsangdo ports · Korean PeninsulaIn the late Goryeo period, under the suzerain-vassal relationship with the Yuan dynasty, fine celadon production continued; inlaid and molded wares circulated as tribute and overseas trade goods. Yuan court records and shipwreck archaeology show Goryeo celadon exports continuing into the early 14th century.
4. 1350–1400Korean Peninsula · Korean PeninsulaThe Red Turban invasions, Japanese raids, and the power of rival factions destroyed kilns and the tribute-porcelain system; Goryeo celadon output and quality fell sharply. After the founding of the Joseon dynasty, ceramic taste shifted to white porcelain, and the jade-green inlaid tradition gradually gave way to new court porcelain norms.