Informant38

Folk instruments
Kayagum (12-string zither) : The kayagum is the most representative instrument of Korea. Its origin can be traced back to the Kingdom of Kaya in the sixth century, when the Shilla Kingdom was ruled by King Chinhung. However, the actual production of the first kayagum is presumed to have been much earlier. The instrument is constructed with 12 strings supported by a bridge. The kayagum can be divided into two groups according to the types of music played upon them. The sanjo kayagum is used in folk and original music pieces such as sanjo (solo music with percussion accompaniment) and shinawi (improvisational ensemble music). The chong-ak kayagum is used in chamber music such as yongsan hoesang (mass at the sacred mountain) or to accompany lyric songs. Komun-go (six-string zither): Along with the kayagum, the komun-go is one of the most important Korean instuments. Instruments that appear to be early, primitive forms of the komun-go have been discovered inside ancient Koguryo tombs in various locations. The komun-go that is used today is constructed with six strings and 16 props, and is played with a plectrum. It is used to accompany lyric songs as well as in chamber music and sanjo (solo music with percussion accompaniment).