Discovering the Hidden Gems of Korean Intangible Cultural Heritage
South Korea is a land of rich culture and heritage, with a history dating back over 5,000 years. The country’s intangible cultural heritage is a treasure trove of unique arts, traditions, and customs that have been passed down through generations. These include language, customs, music, dance, folklore, and more. In this article, we will explore some of the hidden gems of Korean intangible cultural heritage.
Jeju Chilmeoridang Yeongdeunggut
One of the fascinating Korean intangible cultural heritage is the Jeju Chilmeoridang Yeongdeunggut. It is a shamanic ritual that is held every year on Jeju Island to honor the island’s goddess, Seolmundae Halmang. The ritual is believed to have originated over 1,000 years ago and is one of the most important cultural events in Jeju.
During the ritual, a shaman calls upon the goddess by dancing and performing various rituals while draped in colorful garments. A sacred tree is used for the ritual, representing the goddess’ residence. The ceremony is accompanied by traditional Korean music and dance performances, making it a fascinating celebration of Korean culture.
Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival
Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is another hidden gem of Korean intangible cultural heritage. It is a winter festival that is held in the town of Hwacheon, located in the northeastern province of Gangwon. The festival is centered around ice fishing, which has been a part of Korean culture for centuries.
During the festival, visitors can participate in ice fishing, snow sledding, snowball fighting and other fun winter activities. A highlight of the festival is the traditional Korean dance performances, which are held on a stage made of ice. The festival not only celebrates Korean culture, but it also draws attention to the importance of preserving the natural environment.
Gaksimil-gut
Gaksimil-gut is a shamanic ritual that is performed in the southeastern province of Gyeongsang. The ritual is held to connect the living and the dead and is performed to help the dead in their journey to the afterlife. The ritual is a unique blend of music, dance, and drama, and it’s believed to help relieve the dead’s spirits of any earthly attachments.
The ritual is performed by a shaman who is accompanied by a group of musicians, dancers, and actors. The performance involves chanting, bowing, and drumming, and the entire ceremony can last several hours. Gaksimil-gut is an important part of Korean culture, and it showcases the country’s deep spiritual and cultural traditions.
Conclusion
Korean intangible cultural heritage is a rich pool of unique customs, traditions, and beliefs that have been passed down through generations. Exploring these hidden gems not only gives us a glimpse into the country’s rich history but also helps us appreciate the importance of preserving such customs and traditions for future generations. From shamanic rituals to winter festivals, these hidden gems showcase the unique and diverse cultures that make South Korea a fascinating country to visit.
