Nongak (Farmers' Music & Dance) - Introduction
Nongak, registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2014, is Korea's representative folk art. Started to forget farming hardships and boost spirits, called various names like pungmul-gut. Basic instruments are kkwaenggwari, jing, janggu, buk, and sogo, sometimes with taepyeongso. Spinning the "sangmo" (hat with long ribbon) while dancing is Nongak's highlight, performing spectacular tricks with head movements. Regional variations include Honam Udo Nongak, Gyeonggi Nongak, and Yeongnam Nongak. Performed on important days like village festivals, holidays, and farming season beginnings/endings, serving to unite communities. Still performed during Jeongwol Daeboreum and Chuseok, also popular in modernized "Samulnori" form. Nongak represents Korean excitement and spirit as cultural heritage.
Basic Information
- Origin: 한국
- Players: 다수
- Equipment: 꽹과리, 징, 장구, 북, 소고, 상모
How to Play & Features
Nongak, registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2014, is Korea's representative folk art. Started to forget farming hardships and boost spirits, called various names like pungmul-gut. Basic instruments are kkwaenggwari, jing, janggu, buk, and sogo, sometimes with taepyeongso. Spinning the "sangmo" (hat with long ribbon) while dancing is Nongak's highlight, performing spectacular tricks with head movements. Regional variations include Honam Udo Nongak, Gyeonggi Nongak, and Yeongnam Nongak. Performed on important days like village festivals, holidays, and farming season beginnings/endings, serving to unite communities. Still performed during Jeongwol Daeboreum and Chuseok, also popular in modernized "Samulnori" form. Nongak represents Korean excitement and spirit as cultural heritage.
Cultural Value
This game is a representative Korean folk game. Transmitted through generations, it well shows Korean sentiment and community culture. Currently available for hands-on experience at folk villages, museums, and cultural centers in Seoul, it's a popular Korean culture experience program for foreign tourists as well. Enjoyed together from children to adults, it becomes an opportunity for intergenerational communication.