Daemokjang

Daemokjang (Korean: 대목장; alternatively Daimokjang) is a style of traditional Korean wooden architecture and a term for the woodworking artisans who create it. The word literally means carpenter. Mokjang means woodworker, and are divided into Somokjang (lit. lesser woodworker) and Daemokjang (lit. greater woodworker). Somokjang who make small wooden objects are joiners; Daemokjang who builds wooden buildings are carpenters. Daemokjang covers the entire field of woodworking and the entire construction process. Daemokjang builders acquire skills through education and practice. At times, the Daemokjang were treated with prestige, and were offered governmental positions. The "Daemokjang Architectural Method and Theorem" originated in Korea during the Joseon Dynasty. However, towards the end of that dynasty (in the 18th century), the term declined in usage. Instead, their surnames changed to 'Fiansu', and other artisans became known as 'Dofiansu'.