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Metal types are made by pouring various molten metallic materials into molds for type printing. They are categorized into copper type, iron type, lead type and tin type depending on the properties of the metal used.

Metal types are made by pouring various molten metallic materials into molds for type printing. They are categorized into copper type, iron type, lead type and tin type depending on the properties of the metal used.

The Goryeo Dynasty established Seojeokwon as the government agency in charge of printing and publishing, while the Joseon Dynasty had Jujaso, Gyoseogwan and Gangyeongdogam, etc. as the corresponding agencies. While the metal typography in the west established the foundation for religious reformation and peoples’ revolution by mass publishing of the Bible, only limited social classes in Korea enjoyed the benefits of metal typography as mainly government agencies had the authority to print and publish literature.

Advancement of printing technologies and cultural standards of Korea during the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties is illustrated through the ancient literatures printed and published with the metal type cast during the period.

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