Korean Folk Beliefs, A Deep Dive into Traditional Spiritual Practices

 

1. Introduction to Korean Folk Beliefs


Korean folk beliefs are deeply rooted in 

the country’s history, culture, and traditions. 


These beliefs encompass shamanism, ancestor worship, 

superstitions, and various folk customs that

have been passed down through generations. 


Even in modern society, 

these traditions continue to influence 

the daily lives of many Koreans.



2. Shamanism (Muism) in Korea


2.1. Origins of Korean Shamanism


Korean shamanism, known as Muism (무속신앙), 

is one of the oldest spiritual traditions in Korea. 


It dates back to prehistoric times and has evolved 

alongside the nation’s history. 


Shamans, known as Mudang (무당), serve as intermediaries 

between the human world and the spirit world.



2.2. Role of Shamans


Mudang perform rituals (gut, 굿) to communicate with spirits, 

heal illnesses, and bring blessings. 


They often undergo spiritual callings and intensive training 

to develop their abilities.



2.3. Types of Shamanic Rituals


  • Naerim-gut (내림굿)

    Initiation ceremony for new shamans.


  • Jesa-gut (제사굿)

    Rituals to honor ancestors and deities.


  • Byeolsin-gut (별신굿)

    Community-wide rituals for protection and prosperity.





3. Ancestor Worship


3.1. Importance of Ancestral Veneration


Koreans traditionally believe that deceased ancestors 

continue to influence the lives of their descendants. 


Paying respect to ancestors is an essential part of 

Confucian-influenced Korean culture.



3.2. Jesa (제사) – Ancestral Memorial Rites


Jesa is a ritual held to honor ancestors, 

typically on special occasions such as 

Lunar New Year and Chuseok. 


Families prepare food offerings and 

perform ceremonial bows to show reverence.



3.3. Ancestral Tablets and Shrines


Some families maintain ancestral tablets (신위) 

in their homes or visit family gravesites to pay respects.


Korean Folk Beliefs



4. Traditional Superstitions


4.1. Everyday Superstitions


  • Writing names in red ink

    Believed to bring misfortune or death.


  • Whistling at night

    Said to attract ghosts and evil spirits.


  • Number four (사) 

    Avoided because it sounds like “death” in Korean.




4.2. Pregnancy and Childbirth Superstitions


  • Avoiding spicy foods during pregnancy to

    prevent a short-tempered child.


  • Cutting baby’s hair early is believed to bring bad luck.




4.3. Wedding Superstitions


  • Seeing a magpie before a wedding is considered a good omen.


  • Rain on the wedding day symbolizes prosperity and blessings.




5. Folktales and Mythological Beliefs


5.1. Dangun and the Founding Myth


Dangun Wanggeom (단군왕검) is believed 

to be the founder of Korea, 

born from a bear-turned-human and a heavenly deity.



5.2. The Tale of Janghwa and Hongryeon


A classic ghost story about two sisters seeking justice 

after their wrongful deaths.



5.3. Dokkaebi – Korean Goblins


Dokkaebi (도깨비) are mythical creatures that 

play tricks on humans but also reward the kind-hearted.



6. Seasonal and Community Folk Rituals


6.1. Seollal (Lunar New Year)


Families perform ancestral rites and 

engage in traditional games like Yut Nori.



6.2. Dano Festival


Celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, 

featuring traditional wrestling (씨름) and herbal cleansing rituals.



6.3. Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving)


A major holiday where families honor their ancestors 

and enjoy a harvest feast.



Korean folk beliefs continue to be an integral part of Korean society, 

blending ancient traditions with modern life. 


These practices not only preserve cultural heritage but also 

provide insight into the values and worldviews of the Korean people.