Hwandudaedo


Hwandudaedo is the modern Korean term for the earliest type of Korean sword, appearing in the Proto–Three Kingdoms of Korea.
These swords were at first symbols of a ruler's power, but their availability increased in the 5th century, and it became a more widespread symbol of military or political rank. The frequency of finds declines in the 6th century.
The hwandudaedo was a large military swords made for battle, as it had a thick back and sharpened blade. This sword's name was given because of the round shape of the pommel. The swords were richly decorated, with inlay work and especially by elaborate pommel shapes.
Hwandudaedo subtypes are distinguished based on their decoration. They include Sohwandudaedo, Samyeophwandudaedo, Samruhwandudaedo, Yonghwandudaedo, Bonghwandudaedo, Bonghwangmun, Indongdangchomun, Samyeopmun, Wondudaedo, Gyududaedo, Samruhwandudaedo, Bangdudaedo, Duchudaedo.