The objects in this category are the creations of ceramic artists active in Korea during the 20th century, after the end of the Joseon dynasty (1392–1910). Since Korean ceramics experienced a significant deterioration during the Japanese occupation (1910–1945), the recovery after the liberation was slow. It was not until the 1960s that the ceramics tradition was revived through the work of ceramicists based in Ichon, the same place where the official kilns were operated during the Joseon period. Around the same time, ceramics was established as a subject at universities, which further spurred the development of contemporary ceramics in Korea. With the aim to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the country, the Cultural Properties and Protection Act was passed in 1962 in South Korea. Supported by this legal framework, ceramic craftspeople have since ensured the continuation of Korean ceramic traditions. One of them is Ahn Dong-oh (1919–1998), who was rewarded with the status of Important Intangible Cultural Property and was famed for white porcelain produced in the tradition of the Joseon period (see No 1). Meanwhile, a multitude of ceramic artists has endeavoured in reinterpreting old ceramic traditions in experimental, contemporary ways, bridging tradition and modernity through their works.
To date, this category only reflects traditional ceramics of South Korean artists dating to after the liberation in 1945. However, the Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities aspires to complement its Korean collection through additional acquisitions.