- A one-day punch needle embroidery class where you'll handcraft your very own myeongtae (pollock fish) — one of Korea's most beloved traditional good luck charms.
- In Korean folk culture, the dried pollock has long been a symbol of abundance and good fortune, traditionally hung to invite positive energy and keep bad luck away.
- Choose your own thread colors, patterns, and facial expression to create a one-of-a-kind charm that's completely yours.
- Step-by-step guidance from an instructor — from basic punch needle practice all the way through finishing touches — makes this class welcoming for complete beginners.
- Take home a truly unique souvenir that'll keep your Korea trip close to your heart — and a little extra luck never hurts!
What Is an Aengmagi Myeongtae (Korean Good Luck Charm)?
The aengmagi myeongtae is a traditional Korean decorative charm made from dried pollock fish, believed to bring good fortune and ward off negative energy. Historically, these charms were hung near the entrance of homes or new businesses as a way to welcome a fresh start and invite good things in.
The pollock was chosen for its symbolism: as a fish that lays many eggs, it represents abundance and prosperity. Because it's dried and preserved for a long time, it also carries the wish that one's good fortune will last. Sometimes red chili peppers or charcoal were hung alongside it — symbols of purification and protection.
Think of it less as superstition and more as a charming cultural tradition — like a housewarming ritual or a "good luck on your new beginning" gesture.
Now, create your own version — packed with meaning and full of personality!
Traditional symbolism meets cute, cozy embroidery in this hands-on experience. The finished piece makes a perfect travel keepsake and a whimsical good luck object to display at home.
You have full creative freedom over thread color, pattern, and your fish's expression — so every single one turns out completely unique.
The silk thread knotwork, styled in traditional maedeup (Korean decorative knot), carries wishes for long health, wealth, and lasting good luck — adding an extra layer of cultural meaning to your handmade charm.
Instruction is available in Korean and English, and translation materials are provided for other languages. The class starts from the very basics, so no prior experience is needed.
How It Works
- Practice the basic punch needle technique with a warm-up exercise.
- Pick your thread colors and use the punch needle to fill in your pollock fish design.
- Use a needle to embroider detailed facial features — eyes, mouth, and more.
- Apply fabric glue to finish and seal the back, then let it dry.
- Trim and assemble the front and back panels, then attach the traditional knot decoration to complete your charm.