Korean Silver Tiger Series

About The Korean Tiger

The Korean tiger, known as "Horangi" (???) in Korean, is a significant and revered animal in Korean culture, history, and mythology. Tigers have played a prominent role in Korean folklore, art, and symbolism for centuries.
Here are some key aspects and associations of the Korean tiger:

• Symbolism: The Korean tiger is considered a symbol of strength, courage, and protection. In Korean culture, it represents bravery and is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
• Folklore: Tigers feature prominently in various Korean folktales and legends. These stories often depict tigers as powerful creatures capable of both great kindness and ferocity. One well-known folktale is "The Story of Hong Gildong," where a child with incredible abilities is raised by a tiger and becomes a hero fighting against injustice.
• Art and Culture: Tigers have been depicted in traditional Korean art forms such as paintings, sculptures, and folk art. Tiger imagery is frequently found in historical artifacts, textiles, and even on Korean currency.
• Historical Significance: Historically, the Korean tiger was associated with the country's royal family, and its image was used to represent the king's power and authority. The "Eight Tigers of Joseon" (Joseon Paljak) refers to eight influential government officials who were loyal to King Sejo during the Joseon Dynasty and were sometimes called the "Eight Tigers" because they were compared to tigers in terms of loyalty and fierceness.
• Modern Influence: The Korean tiger continues to hold cultural significance in modern South Korea. It is often featured in popular media, sports team mascots, and as a national symbol.
  

It's important to note that while the Korean tiger has a rich cultural heritage, tigers themselves are critically endangered in the wild. Efforts are being made by various organizations to protect and conserve the remaining tiger populations, but they continue to face threats such as habitat loss and poaching.

Overall, the Korean tiger represents an important part of Korean identity and folklore, embodying qualities of strength, nobility, and bravery in the country's culture and history.

About The KOMSCO Mint

KOMSCO, an acronym for "Korea Minting, Security Printing & ID Card Operating Corporation," is a vital government agency in South Korea with a rich history. Its establishment dates back to 1951 under the name "Korea Minting Corporation," but over the years, its responsibilities have expanded significantly. At present, KOMSCO is entrusted with the critical tasks of silver and gold coin and currency production, security printing, and the issuance of official identification cards.

One of KOMSCO's primary roles is the production of coins used in daily transactions across the nation. From everyday circulating coins to special commemorative and collector's editions, KOMSCO oversees the minting process for various denominations, designs, and metals. This ensures the smooth functioning of the country's monetary system and commemorates important national events or cultural milestones through beautifully crafted coins.

In addition to coins, KOMSCO is responsible for printing banknotes for South Korea's official currency, the won. This involves employing advanced printing techniques and security features to safeguard against counterfeiting and maintain the currency's integrity. As a result, the nation's currency remains trustworthy and reliable for both citizens and businesses.

Security printing is another crucial aspect of KOMSCO's operations. The agency is an expert in producing high-security documents, including passports, visas, and driving licenses, as well as other important government papers. With its cutting-edge security measures, KOMSCO helps prevent fraudulent reproduction of these essential documents, contributing to the overall security and safety of South Korea's administrative processes.

Furthermore, KOMSCO is committed to research and development in the fields of minting, security printing, and technology. This emphasis on innovation allows the agency to stay at the forefront of advancements in these areas, further enhancing their capabilities in safeguarding South Korea's monetary system, official documents, and personal identification records.

In conclusion, KOMSCO is a vital institution that plays a multifaceted role in the functioning of South Korea's economy and governance. From minting coins and printing banknotes to ensuring the security of important government documents and producing official identification cards, KOMSCO's contributions are instrumental in upholding the nation's financial integrity, security, and administrative efficiency.