Calligraphy is a type of art expressed in letters. Strong and soft touches of brush and changes in lines create inspiration and classical grace. That is the beauty of calligraphy. As calligraphy expresses emotions and thoughts in letters and a touch of brush, it is also

intellectual as well as spiritual art. Calligraphy was the means of artistic expression for elite literati and classical scholars who were well versed with humanistic knowledge, poems and literature. In particular, it was a widespread belief that handwriting reflects one’s mind and

personality, people continued to strive to cultivate their mind and study diligently to get better handwriting. Korea’s calligraphy has Chinese character calligraphy and Korean script calligraphy. Chinese character calligraphy was developed under the influence of Chinese

character culture whereas Korean script calligraphy was developed in everyday life centering on palace and noble families after the invention of Hunminjeongeum (Korean script). The newly opened calligraphy room in the National Museum of Korea showcases

calligraphic works of master calligraphers. In addition, it presents epigraphy data such as rubbed copies and tombstones to further enhance the understanding of calligraphy culture.