Vintage Korean 23-Column Wooden Jupan Abacus by Korea Sangi – c. Late 1980s

Vintage Korean 23-Column Wooden Jupan Abacus by Korea Sangi – c. Late 1980s / Early 1990s

A wonderfully characterful vintage Korean wooden abacus, known in Korea as a jupan, made by Korea Sangi Co., Ltd. and dating most likely from the late 1980s to early 1990s. Measuring approximately 33cm long, this is a full 23-column working abacus, with all beads moving freely.

This is a lovely example of a traditional calculating tool from a time when the abacus was still widely used in education, commerce and everyday arithmetic across East Asia. Long before calculators became commonplace, the jupan was a familiar sight in classrooms, shops, banks and offices, helping generations of users perform rapid calculations by hand. Even today, abacus training remains admired for its link to mental arithmetic, concentration and visual calculation.

The central maker’s plate carries Korean lettering, including 한국산기(주), which translates as Korea Sangi Co., Ltd. The wording 특선주판 can be read as “special selected abacus” or “specially selected abacus,” while the side marking 고급제품 means “high-grade product.” These details suggest this was a proper quality working abacus rather than a simple souvenir or decorative reproduction.

The piece has a dark stained wooden frame with warm brown wooden beads arranged across 23 columns. The contrast between the aged black frame, cream divider rail and polished wooden beads gives it a beautifully graphic look. It has a strong decorative presence and would look wonderful displayed in a study, office, bookcase, classroom setting, shop display or as part of a collection of vintage educational objects.

Condition is consistent with age and use. There is visible rubbing and wear to the dark finish, especially around the edges and corners, along with scratches, marks, aged labels and a small area of old surface wear or repair to one side of the frame. These signs of use add to its charm and authenticity, giving it the feel of a genuine working object with history rather than a modern reproduction. Importantly, all beads move freely, so it remains functional as well as decorative.

A fascinating and tactile piece of Korean social, educational and commercial history — practical, sculptural and rather beautiful in its simplicity.

Approximate measurements:

Length: 33cm

Type: 23-column abacus / jupan

Material: Wood with metal rods and applied maker plates

Origin: Korea

Date: Late 20th century, most likely c. late 1980s / early 1990s

Condition: Vintage used condition with age-related wear; all beads move freely

Why we love it:

There is something deeply satisfying about old calculating tools. This Korean jupan has exactly the right mix of function, design and history — worn enough to feel authentic, smart enough to display, and still pleasingly usable. A brilliant little object for anyone who loves vintage office pieces, educational history, Korean design or tactile wooden curiosities.

Please note: This is a vintage item and will show signs of age, use and previous handling. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the description. Colours may vary slightly depending on screen settings. Description is provided to the best of our knowledge.