1. Introduction to Jongmyo and Ancestral Rites
Jongmyo refers to the royal ancestral shrine of the Joseon Dynasty,
where memorial services for past kings and queens are conducted.
These rites, known as Jongmyo Jerye,
are among the most significant Confucian ceremonies in Korea
and have been recognized by UNESCO
as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Jongmyo ancestral rites symbolize Korea’s deep respect for
ancestors and reflect Confucian ideals of filial piety and harmony.
2. Historical Background of Jongmyo Jerye
2.1 Origins of Jongmyo
Jongmyo was established in 1395,
during the early years of the Joseon Dynasty,
following Confucian principles.
The shrine has been meticulously maintained
and expanded over centuries,
housing the spirit tablets of Joseon kings and queens.
2.2 Confucian Influence on Ancestral Rites
Korean ancestral rites are heavily influenced
by Confucian traditions brought from China.
Jongmyo Jerye embodies Confucian ideals, emphasizing
reverence for ancestors and the continuity of royal legitimacy.
2.3 Recognition as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
In 2001, UNESCO inscribed Jongmyo Jerye and
its accompanying music, Jongmyo Jeryeak,
as Intangible Cultural Heritage due to
their historical and cultural significance.
3. Structure and Layout of Jongmyo Shrine
3.1 Jeongjeon (Main Hall)
Jeongjeon is the primary shrine hall
where the royal spirit tablets are enshrined.
It is one of the longest traditional wooden structures in the world,
designed to create an atmosphere of solemnity and respect.
3.2 Yeongnyeongjeon (Hall of Eternal Peace)
Yeongnyeongjeon is a secondary hall
that enshrines additional royal ancestors.
It serves a similar function to Jeongjeon but on a smaller scale.
3.3 Ritual Pathways and Ceremonial Spaces
Jongmyo’s layout includes designated paths for kings and officials,
ensuring strict order and adherence to ritual protocols.
The Jeongjeon Plaza is used for performances of
Jongmyo Jeryeak during ceremonies.
4. Jongmyo Jerye: The Royal Ancestral Rites
4.1 Overview of the Ceremony
Jongmyo Jerye is held annually on the first Sunday of May.
The ceremony consists of offerings, music, dance,
and ritual prayers dedicated to royal ancestors.
4.2 Key Ritual Components
Offering of Food and Wine
Symbolizing respect and gratitude,
offerings include rice, meats, and fruits.Ritual Bowing (Gyesahye)
Participants perform deep bows
to show reverence to the royal ancestors.Recitation of Prayers
Scholars read formal texts to
convey gratitude and request blessings.
4.3 Jongmyo Jeryeak: The Ritual Music
Jongmyo Jeryeak is the ceremonial music
performed during the rites.
It consists of two types.
Botaepyeong
Celebrates the virtues of past kings.Jeongdaeeop
Honors military achievements.
The music is performed with traditional Korean instruments
such as the pyeonjong (bronze bells) and
taepyeongso (double-reed wind instrument).
4.4 Ilmu: The Ritual Dance
The Jongmyo ritual includes
a traditional Confucian dance called Ilmu,
performed by dancers in a precise formation,
symbolizing harmony and order.
5. Cultural and Social Significance
5.1 Preservation of Korean Heritage
Jongmyo Jerye continues to be
an essential part of Korean cultural identity,
upheld by the descendants of the Joseon royal family
and cultural organizations.
5.2 Influence on Modern Korean Society
Though Korea has modernized,
the values of ancestral reverence and Confucian ideals
remain embedded in contemporary Korean society,
seen in traditional memorial services such as Jesa.
5.3 Public Participation and Tourism
Jongmyo Jerye is open to the public,
drawing local and international visitors
who witness this living tradition.
The event serves as a cultural bridge,
connecting historical Confucian rites with modern audiences.
Jongmyo Jerye is a unique and deeply meaningful tradition
that encapsulates Korea’s historical reverence for ancestors.
With its rich music, dance, and ceremonial offerings,
it remains a powerful representation of Korean heritage.
As a UNESCO-recognized tradition,
Jongmyo Jerye continues to be preserved and honored,
ensuring its legacy for future generations.
By understanding and appreciating Jongmyo Jerye,
we gain deeper insight into Korea’s Confucian past and
the values that continue to shape its cultural identity today.