The Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V is a striking vintage-inspired electric guitar that recreates one of the most iconic and unconventional designs in Gibson history. Manufactured in Korea in the late 1990s, this distinctive Flying V combines classic 1958 styling, a korina body, set-neck construction and powerful dual-humbucker electronics.

First introduced by Gibson in 1958, the original Flying V was a radical departure from conventional electric guitar design. Its angular body shape, futuristic appearance and powerful sound eventually made it a favourite among blues, classic rock and hard rock guitarists.

This Korean-made Epiphone interpretation captures the essential character of that original design, with its natural korina finish, traditional V-shaped body, rosewood fingerboard, gold-coloured hardware and distinctive string-through-body tailpiece arrangement.

The original late-1990s specification features two Epiphone Alnico Classic humbuckers, delivering a versatile combination of warm clean tones, rich overdrive and powerful rock distortion. A traditional three-way pickup selector allows players to switch between smooth neck pickup sounds, balanced dual-humbucker tones and articulate bridge pickup attack.

Its comfortable 24.75-inch scale length, 22-fret rosewood fingerboard and set mahogany neck provide a familiar playing experience for guitarists accustomed to Gibson-style instruments.

This particular Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 6.68 lbs (approximately 3.03kg) and is supplied without a case or gig bag.

The serial number U99013211 is consistent with Korean manufacture in January 1999, making this an appealing late-1990s example of Epiphone's popular Korina Flying V.

For guitarists and collectors seeking a distinctive Korean-made Epiphone with vintage-inspired construction, classic Flying V styling and excellent playing versatility, this instrument offers a compelling alternative to more conventional solid-body electric guitars.

At A Glance

Pre-Owned Condition Report

Very Good Condition

This Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership.

Its natural korina appearance, distinctive angular body shape and gold-coloured hardware capture the styling of the original late-1950s Flying V.

As a Korean-made instrument dating from 1999, it offers the appeal of an older Epiphone model, with the character associated with instruments that have seen regular use over time.

Specific scratches, dents, finish marks, hardware tarnishing or fret wear have not been individually documented. Please study the product photographs for a closer assessment of this particular guitar.

Serial Number & Manufacture

Serial Number: U99013211

The serial number follows the established format associated with Korean Epiphone production from this period:

• U: Commonly associated with the Unsung factory in Korea

• 99: 1999 production year

• 01: January production month

• 3211: Production sequence

This indicates a likely manufacture date of January 1999, consistent with the model's known production period.

The original serial marking should be checked against the physical instrument when confirming collector-grade dating and factory provenance.

Weight

At 6.68 lbs, this Flying V offers a relatively lightweight playing experience, making it appealing for guitarists who prefer an instrument that feels manageable during extended rehearsals and live performances.

Case Not Included

This Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V is supplied without a hardcase or gig bag.

Because of its distinctive angular body shape, a compatible Flying V case or suitably sized protective gig bag is recommended for safe storage and transportation.

Originality & Hardware

The original specification for this Korean-made model includes a korina body, set mahogany neck, dual Epiphone Alnico Classic humbuckers and gold-coloured hardware.

The originality of the individual pickups, electronics, tuning machines, bridge and tailpiece on this particular guitar has not been independently verified.

No specific modifications or repairs have been reported.

What's Included

• 1999 Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V Electric Guitar

• Serial Number: U99013211

Not Included: Hardcase or gig bag.

No other accessories, original packaging or documentation have been confirmed.

Service & Setup

The Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V features an adjustable truss rod, Tune-O-Matic-style bridge and traditional set-neck construction, allowing appropriate adjustments to neck relief, intonation and string action. For a guitar of this age, relevant checks also include fret wear, nut condition, tuning stability, pickup response, wiring and the condition of the string-through-body tailpiece. No individual setup measurements, recent servicing or functional test results have been supplied. Guitar setups can naturally change due to variations in humidity, temperature and other environmental conditions, potentially affecting neck relief, string action and overall playability.

Key Features

• 1999 Korean Manufacture: A late-1990s Epiphone Flying V associated with the Unsung production era.

• Classic 1958 Flying V Design: Inspired by Gibson's pioneering futuristic electric guitar.

• Korina Body: Distinctive natural appearance and lightweight construction.

• Set Mahogany Neck: Traditional construction with a familiar Gibson-style playing feel.

• Rosewood Fingerboard: Smooth fretting surface with classic dot inlays.

• 24.75-Inch Scale Length: Comfortable string tension and expressive bending.

• 22 Frets: Traditional electric guitar playing range.

• Dual Humbucking Pickups: Warm cleans, powerful rhythm tones and sustaining leads.

• Traditional Three-Way Pickup Selector: Convenient access to different pickup combinations.

• Tune-O-Matic-Style Bridge: Individual saddle adjustment for accurate intonation.

• String-Through-Body V Tailpiece: Distinctive hardware inspired by the original 1958 design.

• Gold-Coloured Hardware: Complements the natural finish.

• Iconic Angular Body: A recognisable design with exceptional stage presence.

• Lightweight Construction: This particular example weighs just 6.68 lbs.

• Very Good Pre-Owned Condition: An attractive Korean-made example from the late 1990s.

Why You'll Love It

The Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V is an instrument that combines an unmistakable appearance with the versatility of a traditional dual-humbucker electric guitar.

Its natural korina body and distinctive angular silhouette immediately set it apart from more familiar Stratocaster, Telecaster and Les Paul designs.

However, beyond its striking appearance lies a practical instrument capable of covering an impressive range of musical styles.

The humbucking pickups provide warmth and clarity for clean playing, while offering the output and sustain required for blues, classic rock and heavier guitar sounds.

Its set-neck construction and shorter Gibson-style scale provide a comfortable playing experience, while the relatively low weight of this example makes it appealing for musicians who prefer to avoid unnecessarily heavy instruments.

The Korean manufacture and 1999 serial dating add further interest, particularly for enthusiasts of older Epiphone guitars.

Detailed Features & Benefits

Iconic 1958 Flying V Body Design

The Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V recreates the distinctive angular design originally introduced by Gibson in 1958. At the time, the Flying V represented a radical departure from conventional electric guitar styling, with its symmetrical V-shaped body and futuristic appearance. Over the following decades, the design became closely associated with blues-rock, hard rock and heavy metal. This Epiphone interpretation retains the essential appearance of the original instrument while offering an accessible way to experience its distinctive style and playing characteristics.

Natural Korina Body

Korina, also known as African limba, is closely associated with the original 1958 Gibson Flying V and Explorer designs. Its attractive natural grain and relatively lightweight construction make it particularly suitable for instruments that combine bold visual styling with comfortable handling. The natural finish allows the wood's character to remain visible, creating a warm, vintage-inspired appearance that contrasts beautifully with the guitar's gold-coloured hardware. This model's korina construction is an important part of its appeal to enthusiasts of classic Gibson-inspired instruments.

Set Mahogany Neck

The Korean-made Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V features a set mahogany neck, providing a traditional construction style familiar to players of Gibson-inspired electric guitars. The glued neck joint combines with the guitar's body design to create a solid, comfortable instrument, while its neck profile supports both rhythm and lead playing. The set-neck construction also distinguishes this model from many entry-level bolt-on Flying V-style guitars, contributing to its appeal as a more traditional interpretation of the original design.

Rosewood Fingerboard & 22 Frets

The guitar's rosewood fingerboard provides a familiar playing surface, complemented by simple dot position markers that maintain the understated appearance of the original Flying V. Its 22-fret layout offers a conventional playing range suitable for chord work, blues phrasing and expressive lead guitar. The classic 24.75-inch scale length also provides a comfortable balance between string tension, bending response and tuning stability, making it particularly approachable for players accustomed to traditional Gibson-style instruments.

Dual Epiphone Alnico Classic Humbuckers

The original specification for the late-1990s Korina Flying V includes two Epiphone Alnico Classic humbuckers, designed to provide the full, warm response associated with traditional dual-humbucker electric guitars. The neck position is suitable for rounded clean tones, blues leads and melodic playing, while the bridge position offers greater attack and definition for rock rhythm parts and driven solos. The combined pickup setting provides a balanced alternative, making the guitar versatile across several musical styles. The precise pickups installed in this individual example should be confirmed if originality is important.

Versatile Pickup Switching

A traditional three-way pickup selector allows the player to choose between the neck pickup, both pickups together or the bridge pickup. This familiar arrangement makes it easy to move between warm, rounded sounds and more articulate tones, particularly when switching between rhythm and lead guitar. Individual volume and tone adjustments, where fitted according to the model's original wiring, provide further flexibility for shaping the response of the humbuckers to different amplifiers and musical situations.

Tune-O-Matic Bridge & String-Through Tailpiece

The original 1958 Flying V design used a distinctive string-through-body arrangement, with the strings anchored through a decorative V-shaped tailpiece plate. The Korean Epiphone interpretation follows this visual tradition while incorporating a Tune-O-Matic-style bridge for practical intonation and action adjustment. This combination preserves the characteristic appearance of the Flying V while offering the straightforward setup flexibility associated with traditional Gibson-style bridge hardware.

Gold-Coloured Hardware

Gold-coloured hardware is one of the defining visual features of the Korina Flying V, creating a striking contrast against the natural body finish. The original design incorporates gold-finished pickup covers, bridge components, tailpiece hardware and tuning machines, complementing the guitar's late-1950s styling. On older instruments, gold finishes can develop natural signs of wear or tarnishing, although the precise condition of this guitar's individual hardware has not been documented.

Comfortable 24.75-Inch Scale

The 24.75-inch scale length provides a familiar playing experience for guitarists accustomed to Gibson and Epiphone electric guitars. Compared with longer-scale instruments, the slightly shorter distance between the nut and bridge can offer a more relaxed feel with comparable string gauges, particularly for expressive bending and vibrato. Combined with the relatively low weight of this individual example, the Flying V provides a comfortable platform for melodic guitar playing, classic rock rhythm parts and sustained lead work.

Korean-Made Epiphone Craftsmanship

Korean-made Epiphone guitars from the late 1990s occupy an interesting place in the brand's history. During this period, Epiphone produced a wide selection of Gibson-inspired designs through established Korean factories, including distinctive models such as the Korina Flying V and Explorer. The 1999 serial number on this instrument is consistent with the Unsung production era, making it an appealing option for players interested in older Korean Epiphone models. Its traditional construction and recognisable styling help distinguish it from many later budget-oriented electric guitars.

Who Is It For?

Classic Rock Guitarists: An excellent choice for players seeking powerful dual-humbucker sounds with distinctive stage presence.

Blues-Rock Players: The combination of humbuckers and a comfortable Gibson-style scale supports expressive lead playing.

Hard Rock & Metal Musicians: The Flying V body shape and humbucker configuration suit heavier musical styles.

Vintage-Inspired Guitar Enthusiasts: Captures the appearance and basic construction philosophy of Gibson's original 1958 design.

Korean Epiphone Collectors: An interesting late-1990s example with serial dating consistent with January 1999.

Recording Musicians: Provides a useful alternative to traditional Les Paul and SG designs while retaining familiar dual-humbucker sounds.

Playing Styles & Applications

The Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V is particularly well suited to blues-rock, classic rock, hard rock, heavy metal, alternative rock and vintage-inspired guitar music.

Its neck pickup offers warm, rounded sounds for expressive leads and melodic playing, while the bridge humbucker delivers the attack and definition required for heavier rhythm guitar.

The middle pickup selection provides a balanced response useful for clean chord work and more restrained musical styles.

Its distinctive appearance also makes it particularly appealing for live performers who want an instrument with unmistakable visual character.

How It Compares

Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V vs Modern Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V

Modern Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V models have been offered with updated construction details, pickups and hardware, including premium Epiphone x Gibson Custom versions equipped with Gibson Burstbucker pickups.

This 1999 Korean-made example represents a different production era, with its own original specifications, construction details and historical interest.

Players seeking a modern instrument with contemporary components may prefer a newer model, while enthusiasts of older Korean Epiphones may find the late-1990s version particularly appealing.

Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V vs Epiphone Flying V

More conventional Epiphone Flying V models often feature different finishes, hardware appointments and body materials.

The 1958 Korina version is distinguished by its natural wood appearance, traditional V-shaped string-through tailpiece and styling inspired by the earliest Flying V guitars.

Players interested in the original late-1950s aesthetic may particularly appreciate the Korina model.

Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V vs Gibson Flying V

A Gibson Flying V generally offers different manufacturing specifications, hardware and pickup options depending on the model and production year.

The Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V recreates the classic design at a more accessible level, while retaining the essential shape, dual-humbucker configuration and traditional scale length.

This Korean-made example is particularly appealing to musicians who want vintage-inspired Flying V styling without the cost associated with an original 1958 Gibson or a premium historic reissue.

Flying V Heritage

The Gibson Flying V was introduced in 1958 alongside other futuristic designs intended to modernise the company's electric guitar range.

Although its unconventional appearance initially attracted limited commercial success, the guitar later became associated with influential players including blues guitarist Albert King and rock musicians such as Jimi Hendrix and Michael Schenker.

Its angular silhouette and powerful dual-humbucker sound eventually established the Flying V as one of the most recognisable electric guitar designs in the world.

Epiphone has produced numerous interpretations of the Flying V over the years, including the late-1990s Korean-made 1958 Korina model.

These instruments offer musicians an opportunity to experience classic Flying V styling alongside the distinctive characteristics of Korean Epiphone production.

Technical Specifications

The following specifications describe the late-1990s Korean Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V. Component originality and production-dependent details should be verified against the individual instrument.

Power Requirements

The Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V features conventional passive humbucking pickups and does not require a battery or external power supply.

It connects to a guitar amplifier, effects processor or audio interface using a standard ¼-inch instrument cable.

🎵 Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict ★★★★★

The 1999 Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V is a distinctive guitar that combines classic design, traditional construction and the appeal of late-1990s Korean Epiphone production.

Its korina body and set mahogany neck provide a familiar foundation for traditional humbucker tones, while the 24.75-inch scale length makes it comfortable for expressive rhythm and lead guitar.

The natural finish, gold-coloured hardware and iconic Flying V shape give it an unmistakable appearance inspired by Gibson's original 1958 design.

At only 6.68 lbs, this particular example is relatively lightweight, especially for a dual-humbucker electric guitar with substantial visual presence.

Its serial number is consistent with January 1999 manufacture, adding interest for musicians and collectors who appreciate older Korean-made Epiphone instruments.

This example is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition and is supplied without a case.

Best Suited For: Classic rock, blues-rock, hard rock and metal guitarists, alongside enthusiasts of Korean-made Epiphone instruments.

Customers Usually Upgrade From: Entry-level Epiphone electric guitars, modern budget Flying V models and conventional solid-body guitars.

Most Commonly Paired With: Marshall-style valve amplifiers, classic overdrive and distortion pedals, analogue delay and appropriately shaped Flying V cases.

Our Tip: Experiment with the neck pickup through a lightly overdriven amplifier for smooth, expressive lead sounds. Switching to the bridge humbucker provides greater bite and attack for rhythm playing.

Showroom Advice: The Flying V's body shape feels noticeably different from a conventional guitar, particularly when seated. A suitable strap and a dedicated V-shaped case are worthwhile accessories for regular use.

Why Buy Pre-Owned From Fair Deal Music?

Buying a pre-owned Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V from Fair Deal Music provides an opportunity to own a distinctive Korean-made guitar with classic styling and historical interest.

Our experienced team understands the importance of accurately describing condition, identifying production details and being transparent about original hardware and included accessories.

This particular instrument is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 6.68 lbs and is supplied without a case.

Choosing pre-owned equipment can offer excellent value while extending the useful life of quality musical instruments.

Warranty, Returns & Delivery

This is a pre-owned electric guitar, with its condition and confirmed accessories detailed above.

Applicable warranty and returns arrangements are governed by Fair Deal Music's current terms, with delivery and collection options available through checkout.

As no case is included, appropriate protective packaging is especially important during transportation.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

As Birmingham's largest independent music store, we specialise in new, used, vintage and collectable guitars, basses, amplifiers, effects pedals and professional audio equipment.

Our experienced team of musicians provides knowledgeable advice and friendly personal service, helping customers find instruments suited to their playing styles and requirements.

Customers benefit from competitive pricing, secure online ordering, UK delivery options, our Birmingham showroom and part-exchange services.

Part Exchange – Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges a wide range of musical equipment, including Epiphone and Gibson electric guitars, acoustic guitars, basses, amplifiers, effects pedals and keyboards.

Your existing equipment could help towards the cost of this Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V.

Frequently Asked Questions

What condition is this Epiphone 1958 Korina Flying V in?

This guitar is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership.

Does the guitar come with a case?

No. This example is supplied without a hardcase or gig bag.

How much does the guitar weigh?

It weighs 6.68 lbs, approximately 3.03kg.

What year was this Epiphone Flying V manufactured?

Its serial number is consistent with manufacture in January 1999.

What is the serial number?

The serial number is U99013211.

Where was this guitar made?

It was manufactured in Korea.

What does the U prefix mean?

The U prefix is commonly associated with Epiphone production at the Unsung factory in Korea.

Is this an original 1958 guitar?

No. It is an Epiphone reissue-style instrument inspired by the original Gibson Flying V introduced in 1958. This example dates to 1999.

Is the body made from korina?

The original specification for this Korean-made model features a korina body.

What is korina?

Korina, also known as African limba, is a hardwood closely associated with Gibson's original 1958 Flying V and Explorer designs.

What wood is the neck made from?

The late-1990s Korean model typically features a set mahogany neck.

Does it have a rosewood fingerboard?

Yes. The original model specification includes a rosewood fingerboard.

How many frets does it have?

The guitar features 22 frets.

What is the scale length?

It uses a 24.75-inch scale length.

What pickups were originally fitted?

The late-1990s model is documented with Epiphone Alnico Classic humbuckers.

Are the pickups original?

The originality of the pickups in this particular guitar has not been independently verified.

Does it have a fixed bridge?

Yes. The original design uses a Tune-O-Matic-style bridge and string-through-body tailpiece arrangement.

What is the V-shaped metal plate on the body?

It forms part of the distinctive string-through-body tailpiece design inspired by the original 1958 Flying V.

Does the guitar have gold hardware?

Gold-coloured hardware is part of the original model specification.

Is it suitable for blues?

Yes. Its traditional humbuckers and comfortable scale length make it suitable for expressive blues and blues-rock.

Is it suitable for hard rock and metal?

Yes. The Flying V design and dual-humbucker configuration are particularly popular for heavier guitar styles.

Can I play it while sitting down?

Yes, although the V-shaped body requires a different seated playing position from a conventional electric guitar. Many players position the lower wing between their legs.

Is it suitable for recording?

Yes. Its dual-humbucker configuration provides a versatile range of tones for recording rhythm and lead guitar.

Are Korean-made Epiphone guitars collectable?

Older Korean Epiphone instruments attract interest from players and collectors, particularly unusual models and well-preserved examples. Condition, originality and individual specifications are important factors.

Can I part-exchange another guitar towards this Epiphone?

Yes. Fair Deal Music considers guitars and other musical equipment for part exchange.