The daegeum (대금) is a traditional Korean bamboo flute known for its rich, deep, and emotional sound. It is one of the most iconic wind instruments in Korean music and is also called jeotdae, jeodae, or jeok.
A Long History
The daegeum has been part of Korean culture for over a thousand years. It began in the ancient kingdom of Goguryeo and evolved through Baekje and Silla. During the Unified Silla period, it was grouped with two other flutes—junggeum and sogeum—as the “Samjuk” (Three Bamboo Instruments).
Unique Sound with a Vibrating Membrane
What makes the daegeum unique is its cheong hole (청공)—a special hole covered with a thin reed membrane. When you blow into the flute, the membrane vibrates and creates a distinct buzzing sound. This gives the daegeum its signature tone, full of emotion and depth.
It also has extra holes called chilsunggong (칠성공) that make the sound even richer and more resonant.
Two Types for Different Music
The daegeum comes in two main styles:
Jeongak Daegeum – used in royal court music and classical pieces. It is larger and has a calm, majestic sound.
Sanjo Daegeum – used in folk and improvisational music. It is smaller, lighter, and great for fast, expressive melodies.
The Daegeum Today
Today, the daegeum is used in many styles of music:
Traditional Korean music
Contemporary fusion music
Film scores, dance, and theater
Modern versions of the daegeum are also made to improve playability while keeping the authentic sound alive.
A Voice of Korean Emotion
The daegeum’s soft yet powerful tone expresses a wide range of feelings—joy, sorrow, peace, and passion.
It’s more than a flute. It is a living voice of Korea’s musical soul.
Source: National Gugak Center
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