Korean drum 장구(Janggu)

The janggu (also spelled janggo), written in Chinese characters as 杖鼓, is one of the most representative traditional percussion instruments of Korea. It is a double-headed drum with an hourglass-shaped body, characterized by having two drumheads that produce contrasting sounds.
The right drumhead is made of horsehide and produces a higher, clearer tone, while the left drumhead is made of cowhide and produces a deeper, lower sound. The right hand plays with a thin bamboo stick called chae, and the left hand uses a thicker wooden stick called gung or sometimes the bare hand. This dual structure allows the instrument to create rich rhythmic contrasts and expressive, almost conversational patterns.
The janggu is used in a wide range of musical settings, including court music, folk music, agricultural music (pungmul), and dance accompaniment. It plays a central role in maintaining jangdan, Korea’s unique rhythmic system. Beyond sound alone, the janggu emphasizes physical movement and expression, making it an instrument where music, motion, and spirituality are closely integrated.
This was purchased at a Korean musical instrument store in Seoul.