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Saimgeon (Four Tiger Sword)

During the Chosan Dynasty, special swords known as Saimgeom was produced during a Tiger year, Tiger month, Tiger day and Tiger period according to the Chinese zodiac calendar.  These swords were believed to harness unusual and pure energy and were kept in royal places and homes of high ranking officials to ward off evil spirit.  Such swords are still made today and are awarded to newly appointed military Generals.

Movie Recommendations

• Haesin (Emperor of the Sea) - "Excellent swordsmanship, martial arts and storyline".  51 episode TV drama.  Based on the life of a true historical figure, Emperor of the Sea is an epic Korean Drama about Jang Bo Go, who rises from a lowly slave to the military commander of the sea during the Unified Shilla Dynasty (676~935).  Available on DVD from Asian online DVD stores such as www.yesasia.com